12 June 2013
Oxford

In recent archaeological thinking, it is widely accepted that objects and artefacts are invested with agency, but this understanding is not commonly extended to landscapes; rather any notion of ‘agency of landscape’ is often regarded as synonymous with environmental determinism. This symposium seeks to redress the balance and investigate how landscape can be invested with agency without being environmentally deterministic.

While this one-day symposium is organised in the context of the English Landscapes and Identities (EngLaId) project, which investigates the development of English landscapes from the middle of the Bronze Age, when the first extensive field systems were laid out, to the Domesday period, when the foundations of the modern agricultural landscape were in place, contributions are encouraged from any archaeological, geographical or other relevant disciplinary perspectives. We also welcome contributions that consider different parts of the world and different time periods.

Abstracts for 20 min papers and poster presentations are invited that address this tension between cultural choices and the structuring influence of the landscape itself. (Deadline 3rd May)

For more information or to register interest, please contact Dr Laura Morley: laura.morley@arch.ox.ac.uk (Wednesday to Friday).

Further details: LINK

For more information about the EngLaId project, see:

http://www.arch.ox.ac.uk/englishlandscapes-introduction.html

http://englaid.wordpress.com

http://visualenglaid.wordpress.com

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22 March 2013
Cambridge, Corpus Christi College

Following the successful format of previous conferences, the approach will be multi-disciplinary. The papers will examine the decoration and fittings of diverse 18th century public interiors such as churches, theatres and spas, and consider the issues surrounding the conservation and use of these examples of living heritage.

The day includes lunch at Corpus Christi College and visits to selected eighteenth-century interiors in Cambridge. After the conference those delegates who are joining the supper party will assemble by the Porters’ Lodge before travelling by punt to a local restaurant.

Further details: LINK

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25th  March 2013  (11am to 5pm)
London, National Portrait Gallery

The Art of Access seminar will explore approaches and best practice of museums and galleries in developing accessible, creative arts programmes to engage audiences with additional support needs. Using current case studies, we will share and discuss programme approaches, challenges and solutions including the new development of a creative art studio at the National Portrait Gallery for artists with learning disabilities and Pallant House Gallery’s long-established and ground-breaking Outside In and Partners in Art which provides opportunities for artists who see themselves as facing a barrier to the art world.The seminar will be an active skills-sharing session for anyone working to engage and reach new audiences and increase access to the cultural and charitable sector.

Further details: LINK

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9 May 2013
Oxford

Oxford University, Dept for Continuing Education

Buildings are more than what you see. This course explores scientific techniques to aid dating and to find hidden features using non-destructive means. It is set against the very practical background of needing to understand the significance of buildings in the developing and changing world of heritage management. The subjects covered will include practical requirements for dendrochronology, dating bricks, mortar and hearths, non-destructive and in situ analysis of glass, moisture content as a dating method, paint analysis and the use of t-rays and infra-red thermography to find hidden features. The course will be of interest to anyone involved in the planning process, management or research where an understanding of the history and development of buildings is required.

Further details: LINK

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