Since The IK Foundation took over the responsibility of the archive, extensive efforts – over the years – have been made to understand the content and its possibilities; via cataloging, long-term archival caring, publishing in printed form and thereby making the full catalogue available. At the same time, during the last few years, the possibilities for economically utilising aerial photography in research have increased considerably due to digital technology and, in particular, the use of both drones and a growing number of satellites. But also the possibility – via the Internet – to reach out and build new networks of interested parties in this multidisciplinary subject.

At the moment, different groups of specialists in several countries in Europe are working to digitise and build systems that will make this archive open, accessible and evolving to be actively used in new projects. However, as in all research, it is important to look forward as well as to know what has happened in the past. The archive also contains a comprehensive library and map material used in the field work, which started in the 1950s. Especially a large-size 19th century atlas is of great interest for the understanding of methodology and interdisciplinary potential of the subject.

The atlas has recently undergone a review of skilled Danish bookbinders whose work has now saved this folio volume for the future so it can be actively used – with a new, fresh and durable bookbinding. The beautiful maps of the volume are filled with notes and sketches made by the major and archaeologist Esse Ericsson (1921-1996), one of the pioneers for the use of aerial photography in natural and cultural history in Scandinavia. These maps are evidence for the necessary preliminary work whilst studying topography, place names etc to succeed in documenting the history of a landscape from a Bird’s-eye view.

To follow our work in this project and the forthcoming department, please watch this space www.iBirdsEye.org - Welcome!