CFP: Making Your Mark 2020: The National Symposium for the Study of Historic Graffiti

Ever since the term ‘graffiti’ was first used by archaeologists in the middle of the 19th century, generations of historians and archaeologists have been interested in researching historic graffiti inscriptions. In the last few decades, there has been an increased interest in these marks, and how they can evidence daily experiences from the past. Graffiti opens up the potential for exploring many different themes, beliefs, and stories, with almost immeasurable scope for practically anyone with an active interest in history, people, and anthropology.

Much of the enormous growth in the level of interest surrounding the study of historic graffiti has been down to pioneering community-based archaeology projects, which in turn have been supported by national organisations such as English Heritage, the Council for British Archaeology, and the National Trust. This has led to a far greater understanding and appreciation of graffiti as a resource which crosses many disciplines, and has also drawn the attention of the wider public. The aim of the symposium is to bring together all of those involved in the recording, research, and interpretation of historic graffiti, for the benefit of all who participate.

Call for papers: We are now calling for papers from anyone who wishes to make a contribution, regardless of their background. All submissions will be considered on merit, to ensure that graffiti remains a truly inclusive and welcoming field for all. The symposium hopes to address and explore a variety of themes and topics relating to the study of historic graffiti of all periods, as well as providing an opportunity to share experiences and insights.

In addition, we invite you to submit your own ideas for presentation. Submissions should be a written abstract of no more than 200 words, with an aim to present for 20 minutes.

Poster Submissions: We also welcome submissions for a poster presentations. There will be an opportunity to view poster presentations throughout the symposium. A poster submission should focus upon the theme of historic graffiti, and can be highlighting the outcomes of a project, exploring a single survey site, or address the wider research issues associated with the subject, or any aspect of historic graffiti. Posters should be a maximum size of : A0 (841 x 1188 mm) and in portrait format. Please submit your poster proposal via the Call for Papers email address.

Please send abstracts to: cfp@historicgraffiti.co.uk Closing date: June 30th 2020