Thanks to Finn Kjærsdam, former rector of Aalborg University, it was possible to bring the magnificent Utzon Archive to Aalborg. Without architect Jan Utzon’s preparatory work and consideration for the entire collection, this impressive archive would hardly be located in Aalborg. The presence of the collection in Aalborg thus makes it possible to present changing displays.

The working group for the collection consisted of Chief Librarian Niels-Henrik Gylstorff, Aalborg University, Head of Department Michael Mullins, Architecture & Design, City Archivist Jens Topholm, Aalborg City Archives, and former director of Utzon Center Anni G. Walther.

Access to the archive
Digital access to the archive can be obtained via www.utzon-archives.aau.dk.

All archival materials are registered, which means that students, researchers, and other interested parties can apply for access and thereby consult the material. Aalborg University Library has deposited the Utzon Collection for storage at Aalborg City Archives’ facility, Samlingshuset Vang Mark, to ensure the best possible preservation of the unique collection of original drawings, furniture, and models. It has been agreed that the material is to be stored and handled at Samlingshuset by the staff of Aalborg City Archives and under the responsibility of the City Archives.

By contacting Aalborg City Archives, specifically archivist Flemming Nielsen, via Utzon Center or Aalborg University Library,  it is possible to arrange a time to study Jørn Utzon’s drawings in the Utzon Collection. This takes place under supervision and with the assistance of the City Archives staff, who must retrieve the drawings. For practical reasons, users should, in advance, have identified which drawings they wish to study, either based on the list prepared by Aalborg City Archives or via the database of scanned drawings.

Copies/scans of the drawings cannot be made, except by special agreement with the University Library. In such cases, scanning is carried out by a professional agency. Copies of the drawings may be used freely in connection with academic work or specialist journals, while commercial use requires an agreement with the rights holder.

Loans to other institutions
Loans for exhibitions outside the Utzon Center can only take place with the explicit permission of Aalborg University Library. In this context, the material is handled according to the same guidelines used by state-recognised art museums in connection with the loan of original artworks. This includes transport and installation of the material, and all insurance matters must be agreed upon and documented before the material is dispatched from Samlingshuset Vang Mark.