At this time, The Merwin Conservancy is working on capturing a historical record of W.S. Merwin, his home, the land and his work. This critical stage allows us to explore what may have the greatest impact and benefit to the literary and botanical world as well as the Hawaii community–and how to preserve the property for future generations. We’re thrilled to be underway on the projects below.
Botanical Cataloging Project
Essential to our mission, the Botanical Cataloging Project started in March 2012 in partnership with the National Tropical Botanical Garden. The NTBG is a 40-year-old, world-class organization with over 2000 acres of gardens and preserves and a living collection that is unparalleled. Their botanical expertise and reputation bring a level of scientific rigor that will garner international credibility.
- The Merwin Botanical Cataloging Project will encompass over 800 unique and rare palm species.
- Importantly, we will capture Mr. Merwin’s oral history through video interviews. This provenance information is essential to unlocking the value of the collection.
- The project includes: a scientist; GIS specialist for GPS mapping; field researchers; accession database manager; Mr. Merwin’s interviewer, Kepa Maly; a botanist; and various assistants.
- The specimens will be stored at the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) on Kauai, one of the most impressive Herbariums in the world.
Documentary In Progress: Even Though The Whole World Is Burning
Directed by Stefan Schaefer and co-produced by Williams Cole, this documentary aims to capture the life and work of W.S. Merwin. From interviews with those that have been influenced by his work to walks through the palm forest with Mr. Merwin himself, this project will chronicle the uncompromising and unique life and work of W.S. Merwin.
Merwin’s passion for environmental preservation and restoration goes hand-in-hand with his poetry, offering important insights for an era marked by environmental degradation, human disconnect with natural processes, and rapid climate change. The film explores what may have the greatest impact and benefit to the literary and botanical world as well as the Hawaii community–and how to preserve the property for future generations.
If you would like to support the film via a tax-deductible contribution,
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