The Picton Reference Collection and Archive consists of 1500 volumes collected over six decades covering 49 research categories majorly on the visual arts of Sub-Saharan Africa and its diaspora. Since its inception in 1960s Lagos, the collection has served as a crucial resource, informing the incredible Picton legacy within African art. In 2023, the second collection instalment arrived safely in Lagos from its former residence at the Picton family home in England.
Some of its rich, indigenous reference materials include publications on Igbo-Ukwu by the University of Ibadan (1970), ‘Yoruba Oral Traditions’ by the University of Ifé (1970), and more. Equally represented in the collection are expert African voices with various publications by renowned Nigerian scholar, Ekpo Eyo, influential curator, Okwui Enwezor, Chika Okeke-Agulu, etc. The Picton archive is a treasure trove that houses some of the rarest journals and magazines on African art, including, African Arts, African Notes, Black Orpheus, Glendora Review, New Culture Magazine, Revue Noire, etc. as well as rare global art publications.
The G.A.S. Library and Picton Archive can be accessed on site at the foundation, and volumes from the reference collection can be temporarily relocated for the duration of farm residencies. The online catalogue can be accessed here