This paper explores the essential and dynamic relationship between the artist and the institution in building the public record of arts activity. It examines the lifecycle of artist-generated documentation and the various methods of engagement with the library that result in material contributions to the collection.

Taking the view that NIVAL is an essentially democratic project in both collection development and access strategies, the paper presents an introduction to the genesis of the library, and outlines some of the ways in which contemporary artists are supporting the role of NIVAL as ‘living archive’. The paper examines a number of recent collaborative projects with practising artists including Jennie Guy, artists’ collaborative Floating World and National College of Art & Design Communication Design students that attest to the regenerative effect of direct engagement by artists in the process of legacy building.