Digital exhibition captures community earthquake images

Several seldom seen photos capturing post-earthquake life in Christchurch will go on show in a new digital exhibition by Christchurch City Libraries to mark the 10th anniversary of the quakes.

The extensive online exhibition – curated from a mix of photos submitted by the community to the Libraries’ digital heritage collection – will go live on the anniversary day, 22 February.

Some photos will appear for the first time or have not been publically accessible.

Anyone can access the new exhibition via the Libraries’ Canterbury Stories exhibitions webpage.

Christchurch City Council Head of Libraries and Information Carolyn Robertson says that the array of images brings fresh insight into the immediate impact of the earthquakes – and the aftermath – on communities, “offering valuable reflections and revealing some rare and momentary scenes”.

“There are some remarkable images that people are willing to share – from the quirky to the confronting and inspiring,” she says.

“Ten years on from that fateful day, it is important to look back and remember.”

The exhibition explores both the immediate and ongoing impact of the earthquakes, from the initial shock and damage, and the community coming together in the aftermath through to creative and inspirational projects for regeneration and rebuilding.

“The exhibition provides a platform for people to share their images and memories of the past 10 years,” Ms Robertson says.

“By providing access to this special collection, we can help nurture a greater understanding of the varied and challenging experiences for so many people.

“The exhibition also provides a gateway to our wider digital heritage collections, featuring many images from the past decade and earlier.”

People can still contribute to the collection.