Robert Wilson papers, 1969-2000
Collection context
- Creator:
- Wilson, Robert, 1941-
- Extent:
- 148 linear feet 318 boxes in ReCAP (1-59, 60a,b,c,d, 61-74, 75a,b,c, 76-81, 82a,b, 83-99, 100a,b, 101-294; 1 cataloged box (CC1), 4 flat boxes, 1 mapcase drawer, 1 oversize folder
- Language:
- English .
- Scope and content:
-
Correspondence, outlines, scripts, production notes, technical materials, story boards, contracts, posters, programs, announcements, recordings, reviews, and other printed materials relating to all aspects of Robert Wilson's theater works, opera, films, artwork and video productions. There are files for all of Wilson's theatrical performances, the most extensive of which is the CIVIL warS. Also included are the files of the Byrd Hoffman Foundation.
Series II contains press materials for 1988 and research materials for King Lear, The Forest, and Parsifal, as well as miscellaneous research files for 1987. In addition, one can find various documents (letters, contracts, etc.) relating to the following productions: The Forest; Alcestis; The Golden Windows; Patio; Edison; Black Rider; Murder (Deafman Glance); CIVIL warS; and Knee Plays. A group of miscellaneous files follows, containing such items as scores, research materials, and budget documentation. In the oversize folders of the series are scores for The Golden Windows and De Materie, research for Black Rider, a press kit for Knee Plays, and various King Lear documents.
- Biographical / historical:
-
American dramatist, director, designer, performer, writer and artist.
Wilson was born in Waco, Texas on 4 October 1941. He attended the University of Texas Austin, 1959-1962 and the Pratt Institute, 1962-1965 where he earned a BFA in architecture. In 1969 he was appointed artistic director of the Byrd Hoffmann Foundation, New York from where he has produced most of his works. Wilson is know for his performance art. He has taught and lectured in the United States and Europe and exhibited as a sculptor and artist worldwide.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.
Series II, Box 20: Permission of the Byrd Hoffman Foundation required.
- Terms of access:
-
Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.
- Preferred citation:
-
Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Robert Wilson papers; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
- Contact:
- rbml@library.columbia.edu