Abstract

Interest has been rekindled in the dinosaur statues in Crystal Palace Park. Created by Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins for the re-opened 1854 Crystal Palace in Sydenham, these presented the first full-size reconstructions of 15 extinct genera, including dinosaurs. In this presentation, Professor Cain will summarise work-in-progress to tie together narratives about sculptor, site, and intellectual activity. What more can we learn about process of reconstruction, participation, and meaning-making? What’s changing in our interpretations as a result of new research? Professor Cain also will summarise recent (circa 2016) conservation work in the park and raise questions about how best to steer future engagement.