The first Annual Archives and Special Collections Lecture was delivered by Professor Owen Dudley Edwards in October 2011.
On that day, a precedent was set and since then we have succeeded in delivering a varied and colourful programme of public lectures that appeals to University members and external users alike.
Traditionally, the Archivist has invited speakers who have spent a substantial period of time researching a particular subject at the Archives and Special Collections or who specialise in a subject area of relevance to the department.
On the 12th of November, this year, we will be welcoming Alex Ioannou, as a guest speaker. He is a PhD student at Bangor University under the supervision of the Institute for the Study of Welsh Estates and The Sir William Roberts Centre for Sustainable Land Use.
Challenging time(s): Exploring how we shape the past and future of Eryri through the exchange of material culture.
We live in challenging times characterised by change and deep anxiety over multiple issues including climate change to biodiversity loss.
Alex Ioannou will share how his research seeks to ‘disturb’ dominant understandings of Eryri. His close-reading of historical evidence and archival material, as well as collaborative work with local communities in Dyffryn Ogwen reveals rich and varied understandings of Welsh landscapes.
His ongoing project Reframing Eryri shines a light on the ways Eryri has already undergone change, from the hidden processes intrinsic to shaping perceptions of its landscape, to the more evident physical transformations undertaken by the significant historic Penrhyn Estate.
In anticipating future change within the landscapes we know so well, Alex’s lecture will discuss how his approach and research showcases a way towards a more empowering and democratic way of deciding landscape change – one in which we can all rightfully interact with the past, present and future Wales.
This lecture will be delivered through the medium of English.
