This workshop explores the research and teaching potential of adopting creative and imaginative approaches to historical material. It is based on the principle that we can more intensely understand the remote worlds of the past not just by writing about them, but by engaging directly with them through creative practice. Despite increasing recognition of creative practice as forms of research and teaching that can generate knowledge and insights that are different to, but complementary with, other research and pedagogical methods, creative-led projects still tend to be limited to disciplines that fall under the creative arts umbrella.
The workshop will focus specifically on the theme of ekphrasis – here loosely defined as a self-conscious literary description of a work of art or architecture – and participants are asked to think of how new understandings of such descriptions in ancient, medieval, or early modern texts might be developed through creative practice (as opposed to more traditional methods). Such approaches might take the form of, but are certainly not limited to, drawing, modelling, photography, and digital technology.
Participants are welcome to explore the potential applicability of such methods in regard to both research and teaching. People can either present their ideas in the form of a short talk or engage others in a creative activity. Presentations might be about either specific case studies or a more general reflection on the theme. We are also open to suggestions from participants should they wish to propose alternative formats.
If you would like to participate, please confirm your attendance as soon as possible and by 22 April at the latest, to Christopher Siwicki. We also ask that you submit a short abstract (approximately 200 words) about your contribution by 31 May
Organisers: Sharon Marshall (Exeter), Christopher Siwicki (DNIR), Kristin B. Aavitsland (DNIR)