Libraries receives archive of photographer John M. Hall (‘75)

From the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Yale University Art Gallery to the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, whether working in Paris or Milan or London, John M. Hall, born on a farm in rural NC, ascended to the top of his field. His architectural and interior photography graced the pages of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, House & Garden, Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, and Veranda, and his discerning eye and sophisticated taste left a lasting impression on the photography world.

“He was a fine artist whose photographs stood the test of time,” according to Dr. Mark Hoversten, Dean of NC State’s College of Design. “John never forgot his roots in North Carolina, even after his photographic work made him world-renowned. We are grateful that the College of Design remained close to his heart, and that he and his husband, John Waddell, have gifted this impressive archive to NC State.”

Waddell recalls Hall’s “determination, élan, and gusto...his innate charm and cheerful disposition were ever-present,” and he echoed Hall’s love of both his home state and his alma mater: “Wherever in the world he lived or worked, his loyalty to North Carolina, NC State, and the College of Design remained steadfast. The John Mark Hall Photography Archive is a fitting tribute and valuable resource in recognition of this accomplished graduate's notable contributions to art and design.”

“Hall’s wide-ranging career as a photographer of architecture, interiors, and gardens created a rich portfolio of photographs that intersect with the strengths of the NC State University Libraries Special Collections Research Center (SCRC),” points out Gwynn Thayer, the SCRC’s Interim Department Head. “The Libraries have compelling archives of modernist architecture, landscape architecture, architectural photography, and prominent NC State faculty and alumni. Connecting John’s work to related collections will increase the resonance and visibility of his work for future generations.” 

“We are excited to have available on our campus his photographic transparencies, negatives, prints, and digital files, in addition to the 29 framed exhibition photographs and other design objects,” notes Senior Vice Provost and Director of Libraries, Greg Raschke. “Our faculty and students will benefit for years to come.”

This photography archive will undergo processing before being made available to researchers.

About the Special Collections Research Center:
The SCRC is an innovative, special collections program supporting research and teaching through distinctive and relevant collections reflecting the curricular strengths of NC State. These collections include personal and professional papers in all formats of prominent faculty, distinguished alumni and other individuals, and organizational records, the University Archives and rare books.

Materials in SCRC are maintained in a carefully monitored storage environment that provides climate control and proper security to ensure long term preservation. The SCRC Reading Room in the D. H. Hill Jr. Library provides a warm and welcoming space to use the collections in a secure, controlled, and fully monitored environment.