College of Arts and Humanities NEWSLETTER

College Newsletter Summer 2019 1 SUMMER 2019 Welcome Celebrating Success In this edition Learned Society of Wales names Celebrating Success 3 Teaching 4-7 newly elected college fellows Dylan Thomas Prize 8, 9 The Learned Society of Wales has named This demonstrates the calibre of our two College of Arts and Humanities academics and highlights Swansea as Lectures and Research 10-15 academics from Swansea University a UK university with outstanding among the newly elected Fellows. credentials. I heartily congratulate our Ancient World on Film 16,17 newly elected Fellows on their awards Forty-eight new Fellows have joined the and thank them for their dedication and Events 18-20 Learned Society of Wales this year from inspirational work.” across the arts, humanities, sciences, and Talks and Projects 21 beyond. Each new Fellow has contributed Sir Emyr Jones Parry, President of the A celebration for our to the world of learning as researchers, Learned Society of Wales, said: “I am academics, and professionals – and all delighted to welcome 48 new Fellows Employability 22, 23 come with a strong connection to Wales. to the Society. Their election recognises Election to the Fellowship is a public their individual achievements and Performances 24 staff and students recognition of excellence, is keenly additions to the world of learning and ‘Welcome to the summer edition of the staff and students bring to the university, competed, and takes place following a I am pleased that they encompass such The editorial team would College Newsletter - what a bumper issue and which are admired globally. There’ll rigorous examination of each nominee’s a range of research disciplines and like to thank those who have it is! be more to celebrate at the graduation achievements in their relevant field(s). beyond. The addition of these new contributed to this edition of ceremonies this week.” Fellows will strengthen our capacity to the newsletter. They include: “It brilliantly captures the exciting, rich and Those joining the Fellowship from the champion excellence across all areas of diverse activities that Arts and Humanities Deborah Youngs College of Arts and Humanities are: academic and public life in Wales and David Anderson; Josh Beard; • Professor Julian Preece FLSW, abroad.” Jo Berry; Angela Black; Professor of German. Professor Preece Jonathan Bradbury; Stephanie has written extensively on twentieth- Established in 2010, the Learned Society Bright; Alexia Bowler; century German literature, society and of Wales uses the knowledge of its experts Elaine Canning; Tom Cheesman; politics, with books on Grass, Kafka, to promote research, inspire learning, Sarah Crowther; Lloyd Davies; Veza Canetti, and Baader-Meinhof and and provide independent policy advice. María Fernández-Parra; Stefan the Novel. He is currently working on a recently edited The Welsh and the The yearly addition of new Fellows aids Halikowski-Smith; Jess Hammett; funded project entitled ‘Bilingual British Medieval World: Travel, Migration and the Society in achieving these aims. Stephen Harrison; Jade Hobby; Writers: Language Ambassadors or Exile (UWP, 2017). Matthew Hughes; Ersin Hussein; Mental Migrants?’ The 2019 election is the ninth in a Tomás Irish; Mark Jones; Rhian • Professor Patricia Skinner FRHistS Swansea University’s Vice-Chancellor, rolling process towards the building of Jones; Mel Kohlke; Helen Lewis; FLSW, Personal Chair in History. Professor Paul Boyle said: “Membership a strong, representative Fellowship. The Geraldine Lublin; Gethin Matthews; Professor Skinner, a medieval historian of the Learned Society of Wales is a Society’s continuing focus on excellence Cam McIntyre; Paddy Mcqueen; with a commitment to equality and hallmark of excellence. This year, out of and achievement will ensure that the William Merrin; Adam Mosley; diversity in academia and a focus on 48 newly elected Fellows from all over the Fellowship represents the very best of Julian Preece; Sian Rees; Ian Rutt; minority and under-represented histories, UK, nine are from Swansea University. learning that Wales has to offer. Patricia Skinner; Sophie Smith; Kasia Szpakowska; Ella Thomas; Sioned Williams; Deborah Youngs. Academics recognised by prestigious book awards Three Swansea University academics are among the authors back at the ups and downs of his career. In the second section recognised in this year’s Wales Book of the Year Awards. of the volume the poems are on a mixture of themes, some Send your contributions for our next edition personal and others which comment on society. The volume Congratulations to Alan Llwyd for winning the Welsh language was launched at the Bedwen Lyfrau book festival last year, The newsletter editorial team is already working on the next • Innovative teaching aimed at addressing particular poetry category this year for his anthology, Cyrraedd a Cherddi when Alan received a special award for his contribution to edition and would like to include your news. Photographs challenges Eraill. The poems in Cyrraedd a Cherddi Eraill were composed Welsh literature. are welcomed. Please ensure you have permission from those • Grants and awards between 2016 and 2018. pictured. • Research and publications Senior lecturer Dr Gethin Matthews was nominated for the • Staff/student events The 70 plus poems in the first section of the book celebrate Creative Non-Fiction award for Having a go at the Kaiser: A Among the activities we would like to hear about are: Please send your contributions (of between 200 and 500 the author’s reaching the age of 70 - the biblical promised Welsh family at war, while Emeritus Professor Stevie Davies • Attendance at conferences words) to Suzanne Oakley at [email protected] by life span. These are autobiographical, personal poems, poems was shortlisted for the Aberystwyth University Fiction Award • Successful student study trips and placements October 14. of rejoicing and grief, of gladness and sadness as he looks for Arrest Me, for I Have Run Away. ‌

2 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 3 Teaching Teaching A feast of fiction, poetry, and plays at Agents’ Day Guided tour assists students’ research On Friday, May 17, postgraduate students in Creative Writing were joined Fifteen students studying the module by literary agents, published alumni and Internationalism, War and Peace: Europe professional actors for a day of celebration 1900-1933 have visited the Temple of and inspiration. Peace in Cardiff with their lecturer Dr Tomás Irish. Thanks to agents Lucy Morris (Curtis Brown Book Group), Hannah Griffiths In the module, students look at themes (All3Media) and Tristan Kendrick (Rogers, such as international law, gender, Coleridge and White) for beginning race, humanitarianism, education and the day with helpful insights, tips and disarmament, primarily in a European conversation, chaired by Professor Owen context, in order to think critically about Sheers. the period following the First World War. They examine internationalism in the We were then joined by four highly early twentieth century and the growth successful Creative Writing alumni who of international organisations, with a have all enjoyed recent publication of particular focus on the League of Nations, their work. Many thanks to Rhys Owain the precursor to the UN. Williams, Rebecca John, Jane Fraser and Wendy Holborow for reading and The Temple of Peace was opened in 1938 speaking to our current crop of Creative as a home for the League of Nations Writing postgraduates. Writing teaching team would like to thank Rough Diamonds was combined with movement in Wales and visiting it gave the Cultural Institute for making it happen, Writers’ and Agents’ Day and the evening students the opportunity to engage with Dr Francesca Rhydderch, Director Professor Owen Sheers for hosting the event in the Taliesin Theatre was a stunning many of the ideas discussed in class in there were group discussions and students and develop an answer based on their of the MA in Creative Writing, said: event so brilliantly, the agents and writers success. a tangible way, using original primary were encouraged to take a photo of the experiences at the Temple of Peace (four “The publishing industry is extremely for taking time out of their busy schedules source material produced by supporters item, write a short contextual caption, of the fifteen chose to do so). competitive and challenging, and by to come and visit us, and last but not least, Swansea’s Director of Creative Writing, of the League of Nations in Wales. with both ultimately being uploaded to offering our students an opportunity to our current students who have engaged Professor D.J. Britton commented: “To the People’s Collection Wales website Another positive outcome has been meet with agents face-to-face we are so fully this year with all that our MA in see impressive excerpts of plays from 13 In the morning, students were given a (http://www.peoplescollection.wales). that one of the students secured a short confident that once they graduate they will Creative Writing has to offer.” new writers was like a feast of all that’s guided tour of the building by Craig paid placement helping the Temple of feel equipped to pursue the business side good in new performance writing. The Owen (Wales for Peace) who explained Many of the students found items that Peace staff to catalogue their institutional of writing with professionalism and flair. Swansea’s MA in Creative Writing is sharp commentary they provided on its origins in the 1930s and its later history. related to their research interests which records later this summer. Dr Irish hopes renowned for the broad opportunities contemporary life was both compelling In the afternoon, students were given the demonstrated how Welsh people that this exercise can be repeated in future “Our Writers’ and Agents’ Day also gave it offers its students, from fiction in all its and entertaining -- a fantastic end to a opportunity to explore the archival and engaged with the ideas previously years and would like to thank the COAH current students the chance to hear about forms, through creative non-fiction and fantastic day.” published primary source collections of discussed in class. Teaching Support Fund for covering the the field from the point of view of alumni into the various genres of writing for the Temple of Peace; as these are not costs of student travel to Cardiff, as well who are now award-winning, published performance -- stage, screen and radio. Special thanks to Dr Francesca Rhydderch formally catalogued, this was very much Students were given an accompanying as Craig Owen of Wales for Peace for writers. Every year, Swansea’s MA students have and Professor D.J. Britton from the 2018- a ‘treasure hunt’ activity. On identifying examination question in advance of the his time, expertise and enthusiasm in the opportunity to see their own work 19 cohort of MA Creative Writing items that were relevant to their interests, trip, meaning that they could research organising the day’s events. “Overall, this was a day of celebration being performed by professional actors students. as well as education, and the Creative in our Rough Diamonds event. This year Elaine Canning The Welsh Government has speaking background. He recently produced videos attended Swansea University featuring Dr Alex Lovell. as an undergraduate on the BA Cymraeg programme, following The videos, which were filmed the second language pathway, on Singleton Campus, aim to and went on to gain a first class encourage more pupils to choose degree. Welsh as an A Level subject and become fluent speakers. Whilst studying as a postgraduate student in the department, he Alex is an inspiration to was appointed as a tutor. young people. He attended Top: Actors rehearse ahead of the Rough English medium schools and He now lectures in Welsh at the Diamonds event. comes from a non Welsh- university. Bottom (l-r): Readings, talks and breakout sessions at the Writers’ and Agents’ Day.

4 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 5 Teaching Teaching Praise for students’ Material connections with the ancient world thought-provoking RIEL essay entries The finals evening for the RIEL Essay Prize 2019 took place on May 16, on Singleton Campus. The prize is in its third year, having been established in 2016.

The winner was Louis Bromfield, a 3rd year Politics student, who received a prize of £500.

Presentations were on a wide range of thought-provoking topics and Above: Members of the Welsh Department's teaching team. it was good to see four colleges represented: COAH, Engineering, New degree is ‘first of its kind’ Law and Management. The Welsh Department has offer new ideas in terms said: “Though the Welsh launched its brand new of linguistic planning, with language will be both the This speaks to the growing recognition multidisciplinary Welsh an academic background focus and the medium, this of both the work that RIEL is doing degree – the very first of its to give a solid foundation degree also affords the across the University and the need for kind – which offers a variety to their findings. We opportunity to appreciate ethical literacy in all disciplines. of learning experiences in would also hope that this international dimensions. the fields of policy, law and course’s graduates will be In the ‘Language Rights in In a world where material artefacts and teaching sessions in the Egypt the Rosetta Stone to consolidate material The student finalists all gave excellent linguistic planning, with able to offer key guidance the International Context’ and resources are digitized, replaced Centre. delivered in lectures and prompt further presentations and the judging panel Welsh as the focal point. to the growing number module, the actions of the by substitutes, or enhanced by virtual lively discussion on museum collections, had a difficult job to decide the order of institutions who are United Nations, as well reality and 3D modelling, the role that Similarly, the module Beyond Mainland how visitors interact with artefacts, and of prizes. The BA Welsh course: applying the standards.” as European Council and museums and their collections can Greece: Asia in the Classical and the afterlife of inscriptions. Students Language, Law and European Union instruments play in engaging students might seem Hellenistic Period integrated specialist enrolled on Beyond Mainland Greece Policy, which will be Owing to the will also be considered. obsolete. This is in fact far from true as is training for students using the newly explored the Achaemenid reliefs housed RIEL Essay Prize 2019 Finalists available for study from multidisciplinary nature of continually demonstrated by the teaching launched Seleucid Coins Online in the museum. Coming face-to-face with September 2019, will offer the degree, the course will “This is a unique degree delivered by the Department of Classics, Database as well as a handling session these reliefs and their Assyrian precursors Louis Bromfield – 1st Place – £500 undergraduate students the be available to applicants scheme because it Ancient History, and Egyptology. Two in the Egypt Centre where students were enabled students to understand the (COAH) 'Is it ethical to use insects to opportunity to study current who have not necessarily combines interdisciplinary modules in particular worked closely to able to assess coins first-hand. impact of the scale and design of these target and destroy food sources in themes such as language studied Welsh as an A and international elements, develop student access to - and critical objects in a way that is not possible in the wartime?' rights in Wales and the Level subject, but who gives the strongest of engagement of - material culture in Following on from the success of last classroom, offering them a crucial insight legal status of the Welsh may have studied other foundations for career museum collections to enhance and year’s study trip (co-ordinated by Dr Nigel into the mechanisms of Achaemenid Neeraj Chakshu – 2nd place – language. relevant subjects through opportunities in the field of encourage self-directed learning, and Pollard: L&T Newsletter Spring 2018), kingship. £300 (Engineering) 'Ethics for Using the medium of Welsh. language planning and all promote the learning community through Nigel, Stephen Harrison and I returned Artificial Intelligence in Judiciary' The course was formally Professor Gwynedd Parry of this, naturally, through peer-to-peer learning. to the British Museum to give students the No doubt, this term, the combination of launched in Tŷ Hywel on from the Welsh Department the medium of Welsh.” chance to directly engage with some of inspecting artefacts using 2D images in Wing Lau – 3rd Place – £100 Friday, May 31 in the Focusing on the Greco-Roman world, the artefacts they had been studying. I lectures, handling objects in the Egypt (Management) 'Is the use of positive company of the Welsh the ancient Near East and beyond, the co-ordinated the trip and assistance from Centre, and coming face-to-face with discrimination an equitable method Language Commissioner, module Set in Stone? Inscribing and the COAH Teaching Support Fund made objects on display in the British Museum of tackling the gender pay gap?' Aled Roberts. Writing in Antiquity trained students in it possible. underscored the importance of combining technical skills to record and interpret traditional and new, innovative methods Cal Reid-Hutchings – Commendation Responding to the inscriptions whilst learning about the At the museum, students enrolled on Set in of engaging with the distant past. That – £50 (Law & Criminology) 'Strict launching of the course, development of writing systems and the Stone? Inscribing and Writing in Antiquity said, nothing will ever beat being able liability rule in doping: a step too Aled Roberts, the Welsh role of writing and inscribing in antiquity. surveyed highlights from the module. to handle an artefact, to stand on an far?’ Language Commissioner These included Sumerian writing tablets, archaeological site, or look closely at said: “We are extremely Students enrolled explored material and Esarhaddon’s prism, evidence of multiple an object on display in a museum to Serge John – Commendation – £50 proud that Swansea debated wider questions (such as the language use in Ancient Cyprus (including appreciate truly the materiality and (COAH) 'Having our Cake and University has taken it origins of writing systems, the role of un-deciphered texts), and the Vindolanda meaning of the ancient world and how it Pictured: Aled Roberts (Welsh Language Commissioner) Eating It: Public Health and Personal upon itself to develop this inscribed texts, and literacy in antiquity) Tablets. The tour ended by the popular connects with our own. with Prof Gwyn Parry, Dr Rhian Jones, Matthew Tucker Choice' course. There is a need in lectures, workshops, regular handling and crowded display cabinet that houses Ersin Hussein for young people who can (student), Lydia Hobbs (student).

6 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 7 Dylan Thomas Prize Dylan Thomas Prize International Dylan Thomas Prize 2019 Worthy winners On Thursday, May 16, British-Sri-Lankan (pictured) said: “Dylan Thomas has celebrated at human rights documentary filmmaker, always meant a lot to me, he’s a writer turned debut novelist, Guy Gunaratne I’ve always turned to for inspiration. (35), was announced as the winner of this And after winning this prize, my mind special event year’s Swansea University International really just goes to all the other writers, In the beautiful, historic surroundings of Dylan Thomas Prize, with a prize sum of or aspiring writers, who are writing from Swansea's Guildhall, we recognised the £30,000, for his debut novel In Our Mad a place similar to where I began. A achievements of this year's wonderful crop and Furious City. place like Neasden, somewhere I always of DylanED Book Review Competition thought was a nowhere place. But to 2019 book reviewers. In Our Mad and Furious City burst into make art out of the world, the language, our consciousness in 2018 providing an the voices I grew up around I always felt Pupils and students from schools and urgent, timely and compelling fictional was important. That’s all I tried to do with colleges across Swansea, as well as account of 48 hours in a Northwest Chair of the judges Professor Dai Smith this book.” students from Swansea University, took London housing estate after the murder CBE said: “Once in a while, a work part in the 2019 competition, producing of a British soldier, as told through three of fiction appears which uses voice, Awarded for the best published literary eloquent, thoughtful and touching narrators. Risky and inventive, Gunaratne style and story, as only works of the work in the English language, written by reviews of the 2019 Dylan Thomas Prize has been lauded for providing an imagination can, to let us enter, to make an author aged 39 or under, the prize shortlisted books. authentic voice to marginalised sectors us see, to demand we understand lives celebrates the international world of The stellar shortlist heard their works praised the continued participation of the literary heritage and his pride in seeing of society and for shining a spotlight on and circumstances seldom given that fiction in all its forms including poetry, wonderfully explored and examined by schools in South Wales in the DylanED it continue through programmes like the very real experiences of youths from centre stage position in our contemporary novels, short stories and drama. the young readers. programme and the reviews that have DylanED. Trefor Ellis (Dylan Thomas' son- minority ethnic backgrounds. culture and society. This is what Guy been received. in-law) represented the family of Dylan Gunaratne’s stunning multi-voice debut The other titles shortlisted for the 2019 Professor John Spurr – (Head of COAH) Thomas and presented the winners with After careful deliberation the winner was novel In Our Mad and Furious City sets out Swansea University International Dylan and Professor Dai Smith (Head of the The Lord Mayor of Swansea, Councillor their awards. chosen by a judging panel chaired by to do and bravely achieves for marginal Thomas Prize were: House of Stone by Dylan Thomas Prize judging panel) David Phillips spoke of the city's rich The results were as follows: Swansea University Professor Dai Smith lives, young and old, in the unforgiving Novuyo Rosa Tshuma, Friday Black by CBE with Professor Kurt Heinzelman; whirlpool of London today.” Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, Trinity by Books Editor for the BBC Di Speirs and Louisa Hall, FOLK by Zoe Gilbert and Schools and Colleges Category trust, destruction, paranoia and hope, Louisa Hall effortlessly award-winning novelist Kit de Waal. On receiving the award, Guy Gunaratne Melmoth by Sarah Perry. captures the uncertainty and precariousness of a world and a Highly Commended - Efa Bowen's highly commended review of man trying to salvage the wreckage they left behind.’ Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah's Friday Black. Her opening line Innovative module was ‘the most beneficial of final year’ reads: ‘Captivatingly strange and escalating from the ordinary Swansea University Student Category everyday situations to horrific violence, Adjei-Brenyah’s startling Swansea University became the first British University to run an debut will confound and terrorise all who read it.’ Highly Commended - Janet Davies's highly commended review English module based solely on a literary prize, where students of Guy Gunaratne's In Our Mad and Furious City. She writes: examine contemporary works of fiction, poetry, drama and short Joint 3rd Place - Cara Davies' review of Sarah Perry's Melmoth. ‘Gunaratne’s characters are imperfect beings, evoking both story collections longlisted for the Swansea University Dylan Opening her review she writes: ‘Follow the flawed protagonist sympathy and criticism.’ Thomas Prize. Students undertaking the module wrote reviews Helen Franklin on her emotional journey into forgiving herself and blogs, and recorded a series of informative podcasts with for the unforgivable.’ 3rd Place - John Baddeley's review of Nana Kwame Adjei- the six shortlisted authors. These were successfully co-published Caitlin Grigg-Williams’ review of Nana Kwame Adjei- Brenyah's Friday Black. John remarks: ‘Friday Black is enormous. with Wales Arts Review. Brenyah's Friday Black. Catlin described the title short story as Not literally, but its themes are contemporary, raw and they feel ‘a captivating story, though it’s hard to choose a favourite of substantial. Consumerist culture is critiqued through shoppers 24 internship opportunities were created by the Cultural Institute the stories, this magical realist world personally captivated me. willing to kill for the latest Parka. Institutionalised racism is as part of this year’s Prize, which offered students the chance It humorously explores the American mall-culture through the disturbingly shown through a theme-park. Many more themes to gain valuable experience in event management, hospitality event of ‘Black Friday’ at the centre of the chaos of a stampede are as frankly confronted and throughout all stories Adjei- and public relations. Students helped with the organisation and of tumultuous and frenzied shoppers.’ Brenyah’s command of prose remains exquisite and honest.’ running of the prestigious award ceremonies and Prize-related events that took place at the world-renowned Hay Festival. 2nd Place - Rhianna Rees' review of Novuyo Rosa Tshuma's 2nd Place - Dawn Thomson's review of Louisa Hall's Trinity. House of Stone which she described as ‘a captivating tale and Dawn describes the novel as ‘Vast in scope and yet intimate ‘This module was the most beneficial and enjoyable module of an entire year’s worth of history lesson, all rolled into one in the personal stories it combines, this novel succeeds at both my final year, it gave me the knowledge and experience to help harrowing book – and it is fantastic!’ macrocosmic and microcosmic levels.’ kick-start a career in publishing after university.’ Molly Holborn ‘It's been a great opportunity to take the skills we learned in our first two years and apply them to contemporary novels. And, I 1st Place - Megan Phillips’ review of Louisa Hall's Trinity. Megan 1st Place - Polly Manning's review of Zoe Gilbert's Folk. Polly ‘Thanks to Dr Nick Taylor-Collins and Dr Elaine Canning for all couldn't have thought of a better lecturer to bring the module concludes: ‘The novel makes us question the way in which we explains: ‘…don’t be fooled into thinking this collection of they have done concerning this module. I think I speak for each to life than Dr Nick Taylor-Collins. I'd very much like to see it perceive others, and in turn ourselves, as we ask how confidently stories is whimsical. With a sensual appreciation of nature, and member of the class when I say it has changed us for the better. continue as it's a brilliant addition to the syllabus.’ we can truly know someone while hiding from the truth in our borrowing from the folk history of the Isle of Man, Gilbert crafts May it continue to do so!’ Jacob Fleming Daniel Morgan own lives. A thought-provoking and cleverly ambiguous tale of stories which feel simultaneously age-old and modern.’ 8 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 9 Lectures and Research Lectures and Research

Illuminating talks at Centenary Lecture Series ‘Drag Me to Hell’ lecture at film festival Last month I was invited to attend as a medium of ‘diva-ship’ in the divine The Spring series of the Swansea Paracinema film festival at the QUAD arts forms of Tim Curry’s Frank’n’Furter Building Society sponsored lectures centre in Derby to give my lecture Drag and…Divine (Harris Glenn Milstead). featured a succession of renowned Me To Hell: Representations of Drag & Modern progressive representation was speakers. Transvestism In Horror Film & TV. The talk investigated through mainly televisual was a shorter version of the three-hour representation in RuPaul’s Drag Race The equality and diversity lecture which I gave at the London chapter (2009-) and The Boulet Brother’s Dragula campaigner Laura Bates took her of the Miskatonic Institute of Horror (2016-), supported by excerpts from an audience on a frank, powerful Studies last September. Paracinema is a interview with Swanthula Boulet herself. and alarming look at prevalent festival which celebrates ‘films and genres everyday sexism. outside the mainstream’ focusing on horror The lecture aligns with my ongoing and scifi cinema, but is also a welcome research into the horror genre, and Populariser of Science and showcase for other under-represented personal interest in drag. Currently mathematics Marcus du Sautoy genres and sub-genres. in the fourth year of a part-time PhD in asked us to join him on an Creative Writing, I am writing a script examination of the nature of human In a well-attended talk, I discussed with an in the horror-comedy genre and a thesis creativity in ‘The Creativity Code’ audience of horror enthusiasts including which explores the cohesive links between and explained how advancements film students, drag fans and paracinema horror and comedy through subversion in AI might jolt us into being more supporters, key points of intersection in and excess. Furthering these academic imaginative in turn. genre films containing representations fields offers much to dissertation students of drag or transvestism. Films explored exploring related themes, and to the The finale to the Spring series was included Williams Castle’s Homicidal as a mode of ‘deviancy’. Simultaneously, proposed development of a third year a fascinating, illuminating dive into (1961), Brian DePalma’s Dressed To Kill however, films such as Jim Sharman’s The Horror Film module in the Media and the 3000 year old complex history (1980), and, of course, the ‘mother’ of Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) and the Communications degree programme. of the great city of Istanbul with them all, Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960). early works of John Waters (such as Pink presenter and historian Bettany These films represent drag/transvestism Flamingos, 1972) offer drag/transvestism Sarah Crowther (pictured) Hughes.

Congratulations New book presents previously unpublished accounts Paper examines ‘The Global Rise of Troll-Warfare’ Congratulations A book edited and translated by Dr Stefan the Danish king Frederik IV to Venice in the winter In April 2019, I was invited Glasgow-based Palgrave to Professor Tudur Halikowski Smith is due to be published this of 1708-9 to envisage this trading partnership, to speak in Bergen, Norway. Journal of Digital War (co- Hallam, from the Welsh September. Two Missionary Accounts of Southeast Venice in the eighteenth century was a city of There were two paid events, edited between myself and Department, for being Asia in the Late Seventeenth Century presents fasti, or lavish partying and self-indulgence, whilst one at ‘The House of Literature’ Prof. Andrew Hoskins), voted to join the board of critical editions of two previously unpublished her sea empire was being whittled away: she was in central Bergen on the 24th, and my next book project the Arts Council of Wales. missionary accounts of Ayutthaya and the East no longer able to keep order in the Adriatic and which was ‘William Merrin in on Troll Warfare. I gave Indies scene after the "National" Revolution of the sea corsairs at bay, her terraferma was being Dialogue with Arild Linneberg a keynote paper entitled Members are appointed 1688 in Thailand. The texts presented are by devastated, and none of the urgent public works and Janne Sund’, and which ‘Incomprehensible War’ at by the Deputy Minister Guy Tachard, a French Jesuit; and Nicola Cima, projects, like the better fortification of the Isthmus included a book-signing of the Digital War Symposium for Culture, Sports an Italian Augustinian. Including a substantial of Corinth and the renovation of the Castello di my books on Jean Baudrillard, at Glasgow University on and Tourism, Welsh introduction to contextualize the accounts, this Morea, were realised. Media Studies and Digital 20th March, and delivered a Government. The board book makes available in English some primary War. The next day, the staff seminar paper entitled is responsible for aspects source material addressing important and “In this context, to regularize an eight-month 25th, I gave an invited paper ‘The Continuation of Politics such as determining the overlooked aspects of the European missionary sea journey to the ends of the earth, with forced called ‘Media and Truth: by Other Memes: The Global strategic direction of the mentality. stops and frequent invernadas, or winterings in Weaponizing Reality’, at Rise of Troll-Warfare’ to the Arts Council; Developing, protected harbours en route, can only appear the Forum for Science and Royal Holloway University of • In May, William Merrin applying and monitoring “By self-delusional aspects of missionary writing, absurd. But, regardless of their utopian delusions, Democracy at the University London, Department of Politics blog posts by myself). Andrew Hoskins and I are making gave the lecture ‘What Will the arts policy; Agreeing I mean they are either nostalgic, as in the case these are interesting, substantial texts that tell us of Bergen, Norway, on issues and International Relations on Remain? Remembering the on the corporate and of Guy Tachard, hankering after a state initiative a lot both about the Europeans who were writing around ‘fake news’ and the 6th March. plans for a CRAM/CODAH- supported international Digital Anthropocene’, to accompany practical plans, and that was shown to be before its time by the them, and about Southeast Asia in a period when political use of this concept. the exhibition ‘What Will allocating grants to circumstances of the 1688 court revolution in information was in much shorter supply than prior The new Journal of Digital War conference to be held at Swansea University in Remain of Us’ (curated by Abby institutions. Siam, or simply beyond the political and economic to 1688, and when kingdoms across Southeast I’ve also done several talks War will publish in March Poulson), College Street Gallery/ constraints of the day,’ said Dr Halikowski Smith. Asia tended to retract from outward engagement this term to promote my 2018 2020 and it has a new journal September 2020 to coincide with the second journal issue. Mission Gallery, Swansea All the best go to Tudur in ‘Thus, for example, while Cima may have been and to become what historians have christened Digital War book, the newly- website, https://www.digital- College of Art, University of this exciting role. responding to a three-month state visit made by 'hermit kingdoms'.” commissioned Swansea/ war.org (including ongoing Wales Trinity Saint David. William Merrin

10 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 11 Research Research

Talk: Making thinking visible in the classroom Valuable insights from Dr Helen Lewis, Senior Lecturer in the School of Education was invited to speak at the research trip to Patagonia International Thinking Schools Conference, held in Swindon Dr Geraldine Lublin (MLTI) has recently come different, British Academy/Leverhulme over two days in June. Over back from a successful trip to Patagonia, Trust-funded project: Settler Colonialism 120 delegates from countries where she completed a number of activities in Patagonia: Developing Theory through including Norway, Egypt, China, relating to two research grants. Practice. Bulgaria and the UK were in attendance. As part of the CHERISH-DE-funded ‘Digital A two-day workshop was held in the town Memories and Trajectories in Southern of Caleta Olivia (Santa Cruz) in order to Keynote presentations were Patagonia’ Project, the 'Orígenes' [Origins] explore the usefulness of settler colonial made by Professor Paul Howard- app was officially launched in the territory theory to reflect on colonisation processes in Jones, Alistair McConville and of the Camusu Aike community with whom it Southern Patagonia and their consequences Professor Rose Luckin and was co-designed. for indigenous peoples in the present. Using a covered topics such as the collaborative approach with members of the evolution of the brain and the rise The app allows users to create digital Mapuche, Tehuelche, Mapuche-Tehuelche of Artificial Intelligence. Helen's family or community albums on individuals' and Selk’nam peoples, the theory's main talk was based on her research own Android devices (mobiles or tablets), tenets were analysed before collectively into the teaching of thinking taking or selecting pictures (from their own reflecting on its relevance for the region and metacognition in primary gallery or a community-managed dedicated on the basis of the individual, family and/ Research Across Boundaries Conference schools, and was entitled 'See, repository), recording and adding audio or community experiences and trajectories The College of Arts and Humanities Cardiff and Cardiff Metropolitan heroes, environmental sustainability, and Think, Wonder: practical ways and sharing information on the trajectories shared by the workshop participants. organised an inter-disciplinary research universities, and University College theatre and performance. Researchers of making thinking visible in your of the individuals portrayed and building conference on May 20-21. Held in Taliesin London. Over 150 academic staff and also discussed the potential of current classroom'. genealogical links among them. Workshops As well as contributing to theoretical Create, Research Across Boundaries was postgraduate research students attended, research projects such as bilingual writers about the app were also held in other discussions around SCT itself by co-theorising a new initiative in providing a place and with plenty of opportunity for networking as well as opportunities for new research, Inaugural scholarship locations in the provinces of Santa Cruz from the lived experience of Patagonia's space for researchers to get together to conversation. for example on Welsh history, language, and Tierra del Fuego, and the trip allowed indigenous peoples, a key element in this hear about each other’s work. literature and culture. The intention awarded to colleague the research team to foster links with the 'dialogue of knowledges' will be to use Key cross-university conference themes is to repeat this as an annual event as National University of Rio Negro, the insights to produce educational materials The conference featured nineteen were research on global challenges, part of the College’s contribution to the Dr David Anderson from the National University of Tierra del Fuego and (created by the communities themselves) panels and sixty eight presentations digital applications, and health and University’s Research and Innovation American Studies programme, the 'Instituto de la Patagonia'at the University and influence policy (via co-produced report from staff drawn from all the colleges wellbeing. New ideas for inter- Strategy, which strongly emphasises Department of Political and of Magallanes (Punta Arenas, Chile). aimed at policymakers at local and regional in the University as well as Library and disciplinary research were presented on a inter-disciplinary work. Cultural Studies, was awarded levels, in line with the Intercultural Bilingual Information Services. It also hosted wide range of issues including migration the inaugural Scholarship for The trip was instrumental in enabling a Education framework in force in Argentina). external speakers from Swansea Council, and refugees, trust and Brexit, modern Jonathon Bradbury the Study of Historical and Contemporary Slavery at Gladstone’s Library in Hawarden, Keynote lecture at University of Málaga MEMO (COAH’s Centre for Medieval and researchers on topics including prediction Flintshire. Early Modern Research) held its thirteenth and prophecy, the philosophers’ stone, Dr Marie-Luise (Mel) Kohlke from the on “Traumatophilia in Neo-Victorian annual Symposium by the Sea on June 18 toad-based cures for the plague, and David spent a week in April in Department of English Literature and Fiction: The Lure of Historical Suffering” at and 19, with support from COAH and the alchemical networks. residence at Britain’s only Prime Creative Writing presented a keynote AICED-21, the 21st Annual International Society for the Social History of Medicine, Ministerial library examining lecture on “Orientating the Reader in Neo- Conference of the English Department, on the theme of Magic, Alchemy, and Visiting Leverhulme Professor Wendy Turner archival material relating to Victorian Biofiction” at the (Neo-)Victorian University of Bucharest, on the theme of Cosmology in the Medieval and Early (Augusta University) closed the symposium Gladstone’s connections to ‘Orientations’ in the Twenty-First Century “Trauma, Narrative, Responsibility”, which Modern World. by offering a response to the papers and Susan Dabney Smedes. In 1890, conference, held at the University of Málaga, ran from June 6-8, 2019 in Romania. leading a final discussion. Gladstone’s publisher, John Spain, from May 15-17, 2019. Keynotes were delivered by Dr Joanne Murray, released A Southern Edge (John Rylands Library, Manchester) With speakers also coming from Sydney, Planter, a revision of Smedes’ Her PhD student Ashleigh Taylor Sullivan • Dr Alexia Bowler from the Department speaking on ‘Divination, medical Lisbon, Birmingham, Newcastle, Exeter, Memorials of a Southern Planter, also presented a paper on “‘Jane, always of Applied Linguistics and Dr Adele Jones prognosis, and the boundaries of the and the Warburg Institute, London, this a biography of her father, a Jane. I should never be rid of Jane’: Neo- from DACE also presented at the Malaga occult in late medieval England’; Dr Adam was an event that both attracted a wide slaveholder in Mississippi, Victorian Gothic Orientations in Daphne du conference. Alexia’s paper was on Mosley (SU), answering the question range of external participants and was originally published in 1887. The Maurier’s Rebecca and Sarah Waters’ The discourses of masculinity in the television ‘When was cosmology?’; and Dr Sophie well attended by Swansea-based scholars. revised edition is notable for the Little Stranger” at the same event. series Ripper Street. Adele’s was on ‘the Page (UCL), on ‘Cosmology and magic in For twitter coverage, see @MEMOSwansea. inclusion of a prefatory notice by disruptive influence of intertextuality on the later middle ages’. In addition, there Gladstone. Mel presented a further keynote lecture linearity in the novels of Sarah Waters’. were eight presentations by early career Adam Mosley

12 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 13 Research and talks Research

‘I, Immendorff’ by Bilingualism in the workplace is discussed at conference Feridun Zaimoglu: On April 12, the international research namely Meri Huws, the first Welsh poems translated project COMBI held its final conference Language Commissioner, Sari Pöyhönen, in Taliesin Create, lead by Dr Gwennan Professor of Applied Linguistics in A series of 100 poems by the Higham from the Welsh Department. Jyväskylä University, and Professor celebrated German writer Gwerfyl Roberts, former Director of the Feridun Zaimoglu, dedicated to The COMBI project, which was funded Research Centre, LLAIS. German artist Jörg Immendorff, by Erasmus+, was a partnership between in the healthcare sector. The objective Also as part of the conference, the have been published by one six institutions from five multilingual of the resources was to teach and project team presented its research and of the world’s leading art book areas: Swansea University; Elhuyar support migrants to develop language resources pack for language teachers, publishers, Walther König, with and Banaiz Bagara, Basque Country; skills (in minority languages) that would occupational trainers and policy makers. Tom Cheesman’s translations. Axxell, Finland; Danilo Dolci, Sicily; be suitable for use in their work in the At the close of the conference, a series The poems were commissioned Mercator European Research Centre healthcare sector. of workshops were held, giving everyone for a 600-page exhibition (Fryske Akademy), Friesland. The aim the opportunity to discuss bilingualism in catalogue, published in German of the project was to prepare resources During the conference, there were the workplace and teaching techniques and English editions: Für alle to help teachers of minority languages presentations by three keynote speakers, for migrants. Lieben in der Welt and For All Beloved in the World.

The catalogue is a remarkable Demonology Project goes on tour feat of book design, with the This year I was lucky enough to be invited to present on 100 poems each interleaved various facets of my Egyptological research at both specialist on semi-translucent paper and public venues in the USA. I like to think of this as the between reproductions of Jörg Ancient Egyptian Demonology Project: 2K BCE on tour. Immendorff’s work. He was one College staff take centre stage of the leading West German The year began with a week in January on the West Coast experimental artists of the later with a presentation for my alma mater UCLA. While in Los 20th century, famous for his for a series of Hay Festival talks Angeles, I was also interviewed by animator and historian historical paintings, monumental The first Friday of the Hay Festival saw the panel consisting of Professor Daniel Williams of dance Betsy Baytos. She had initially contacted me in the sculptures, and disruptive art- editors of the Cambridge History of Welsh and Welsh poet Menna Elfyn (pictured above) context of learning about ancient Egyptian dance. We ended political happenings. The Literature, Geraint Evans and Helen Fulton, as they discussed and celebrated the life, up focusing on the movements of the “Bes-image” featured exhibition is Immendorff’s examine the many different ages and faces works, and legacy of Emyr Humphreys in this, in ancient Egyptian iconography (see line-drawings). It turns biggest retrospective yet. It of Welsh literature with renowned Welsh poet his centenary year. out that the movements of this divine being are characteristic opened in Munich in autumn Gillian Clarke and novelist and historian Jon of what is called “eccentric dance”—the subject of Betsy’s 2018 and will travel worldwide Gower, in a wonderful late afternoon event An intrigued audience of over 800 people research. She is including animations of the Bes-image in having time to look around at objects both modern and ancient. in the coming years. on the Starlight Stage. packed the Oxfam Moot stage on Thursday her forthcoming movie and animation The Choreography Finally, the tour ended back in the UK with a demonology May 30 as Swansea University's Luca Trenta of Comedy: The art of eccentric dance being screened at study day in Chesterfield. While many presentations took Zaimoglu’s poems capture On Saturday May 25 the recipient of the and the University of Nottingham's Rory Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in August — place in museums and universities, they were all open to the moments in Immendorff’s life 2019 Swansea University Dylan Thomas Cormac offered an enthralling look at the ancient Egyptian demons visit the Oscars! Then, on to Pacifica public and I was delighted that this was the first Egyptological and times in an enigmatic, Prize, Guy Gunaratne, read at the festival’s dark, disturbing, intriguing and complex Graduate Institute (specializing in depth psychology and presentation for many attendees. A number of them were fragmented style, building to ‘writers at work’ session and then spoke at subject of political assassinations. The session mythology) where graduate students from around the USA there because of their interest in dreams and psychology—not a compelling narrative. The a very special celebration of this year’s was wonderfully chaired by Oliver Bullough. had come to learn more about ancient Egyptian mythology. only did my research have an impact on them, chatting with poet blends colloquialisms, outreach and engagement work conducted Some of them have continued to stay in touch, posting on them has broadened my own ideas and understanding as archaisms, dialect and artworld under the banner of the world renowned Twitter the objects that they now notice and appreciate when well. The presentations included: jargon, and brings in allusions to prize in the beautiful setting of the festival’s • Academi Hywel Teifi has once again visiting museums. Finally, it was onto UC Berkeley and ARCE • “Armed and Dangerous: An Iconography of Protective everything from Old Testament Summer House. This was before he took to the held a Welsh language event at the Hay Northern California which sadly was the final stop on the Ancient Egyptian Daemons” prophecy to debates within Starlight Stage to answer the questions of the Festival as part of the Swansea University West Coast Tour. • “Demons in the Dark: Nightmares in Ancient Egypt” 1970s European Maoism. Chair of the Prize’s judging panel Professor series of events. The event on May 27 to • “Exploring the Invisible in Ancient Egypt” Dai Smith and those of the large, gathered mark the 100th birthday of Welsh writer The Annual Conference of the American Research Center The series of poems has also audience. The Neasden author offered great Emyr Humphreys was held in Welsh, with in Egypt took place in, appropriately, Alexandria, Virginia, The talks explored a whole realm of dynamic wonderful been published separately, as insight into how his local inner-city urban English simultaneous translation. Director of and conveniently during the spring vacation here at Swansea imaginal beings that personify and manifest underlying a beautifully designed small- culture had a direct effect on the creation of Academi Hywel Teifi, Dr Gwenno Ffrancon, in April. After a wonderful three days of presenting and insecurities that otherwise remain undocumented. The aim format book. This includes his award-winning debut novel In Our Mad said: “Academi Hywel Teifi was delighted hearing papers by scholars and students, it was off on the was to encourage modern audiences to recognize the beings just one Immendorff artwork and Furious City. to present a Welsh medium session again East Coast Tour, starting in the sun at Johns Hopkins University also as the result of a common drive to cope with afflictions reproduction. Again there are this year and that the University’s exciting in Baltimore and in Dallas, followed by gloomy weather at by creating approachable beings. They were made tangible German and English editions: Bank Holiday Monday held a treat for fans of partnership with Hay Festival enabled festival Boston University, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New and real through imagery and objects—like superheroes Ich, Immendorff and I, a Welsh literary great as the beautiful Starlight attendees to experience a Welsh medium York City, and the University of Pennsylvania Museum of accessible to all those in need, even in ancient Egypt. Immendorff. Stage saw Professor M. Wynn Thomas chair a event during their visit. ” Archaeology and Anthropology. At both museums I ended up Kasia Szpakowska 14 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 15 Ancient WorldEmployability on Film launch Ancient World on Film launch A creative way to study the past

This academic year, students in the the creativity and professionalism that Department of Classics, Ancient our students demonstrated during the History and Egyptology worked with project,” said Dr Harrison. “Developing an professional filmmakers and local original idea for a film required excellent community groups to create a series of understanding of academic ideas and short films about the ancient world. an ability to empathise with potential audiences. Their remit was to present original research ideas in a creative and “The students have also gained hugely accessible format that would appeal valuable skills, from budget management to audiences that do not traditionally and team work to creative thinking and engage with ‘Classics’. clear communication, which will be very helpful in their careers beyond university.” The four films explored different questions about the ancient world - Who The films premiered in the Taliesin Theatre owns cultural heritage? What do objects on Singleton Campus on Monday May 13 reveal about their owners? Is there such to an audience of 230 people, consisting of as thing as historical truth? How do staff, students, and members of the public. metals affect society? - all of which can also be asked of the modern world. The reception afterwards gave the audience a chance to talk to the filmmakers and Dr Stephen Harrison said staff overseeing students involved in the project. Pictured the project were proud of their students. are staff, students, filmmakers and audience “We were really impressed with members at the reception.

16 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 17 Events Events A weekend of events at Tafwyl Festival Academi Hywel Teifi was once again young poets of the Welsh Department poets and writers. proud to sponsor and offer a full present their poetry. Grug was also part programme of events at the Tafwyl of the Writers at Work project at the Hay Professor Martin Johnes from the Festival’s Literature Pavilion over the Festival. Department of History discussed his new weekend of June 22, 2019. book and television series on Welsh There was also a chance to hear a history Wales – England’s Colony? with Tafwyl is Cardiff’s annual Welsh language selection from Tudur Hallam’s new volume Professor Daniel Williams, Director of arts and culture festival which attracts of poetry Parcio, published by Barddas. the Richard Burton Centre for the Study over 40,000 visitors. Many of the poems were inspired by of Wales. And there was also an Tudur’s experience of travelling to opportunity to hear about Characters of This year's Literature Pavilion programme Trump’s America in 2017, as he reflected the Swansea Valley – a selection of the included discussions and readings by on the racial tensions in the country and works of valley writers with illustrations some of Swansea University's foremost the similarity between minorities in the US by the renowned Pontardawe artist Mike academics and writers and also from the and here in Wales. He also writes about Jones, which appear in a volume edited Swansea Valley Reading Club, which his family and friends, and the joys and by members of the Swansea Valley meets at the Tŷ'r Gwrhyd Welsh Centre, sorrows of life. Reading Club. Pontardawe which was established and is run by Academi Hywel Teifi. Professor Gwynedd Parry of the Director Dr Gwenno Ffrancon said: Department of Welsh discussed his new “Academi Hywel Teifi is delighted to Amongst the events presented by book Y Gyfraith yn ein Llên (The Law in sponsor the Tafwyl Literature Pavilion for Academi Hywel Teifi this year was Awen our Literature), University of Wales Press, the fourth year running, and so continue Abertawe which gave festival visitors the which traces the influence of the law on to work in partnership with this special opportunity to hear Chaired bard and Welsh literature from the Early Middle festival to promote the Welsh language Professor of Welsh Tudur Hallam (pictured Ages to the present day. Professor Parry and to share the work and talent of below), winner of the Inter-College discussed how the law, over the centuries, Swansea University's distinguished Eisteddfod Chair Grug Muse, and other had stirred, inspired and enraged both writers and scholars.”

Thousands visit GwyddonLe pavilion For the ninth year running, the University Rheon. Visitors were also able to take a the Morgan Academy Scholarship of hosted the GwyddonLe science pavilion tour of the vessel with College of Science £250 and a Morgan Academy arranged at the National Urdd Eisteddfod, the staff during the week. work experience, was Thomas Kemp largest touring youth festival in Europe. from Ysgol Gyfun Garth Olwg. The GwyddonLe, coordinated by A public speaking competition, Her Academi Hywel Teifi, was a huge success Academi Morgan (Morgan Academy Other activities at the pavilion included and attracted more than 100,000 visitors Challenge,) was held at the GwyddonLe the opportunity to code robots, Pictured above: Y throughout the week. on Friday June 1. The event was ride a hydrogen bike, learn about Gyfraith yn ein Llên by sponsored by the Morgan Academy plastic pollution and its impact on Professor Gwynedd The GwyddonLe provides children and in cooperation with the Department of the environment, help professional Parry. young people with the opportunity to Geography and Academi Hywel Teifi. astronomers to explore the wonders of Left: Professor Tudur enjoy a variety of activities from the The competition, which was launched in the universe and much more. Hallam at Tafwyl world of science and technology under 2018, aims to give pupils the opportunity Festival’s Literature the leadership of Swansea University’s to display their debating and reasoning Swansea University also worked in Pavilion. scientists. skills in addition to receiving feedback collaboration with external partners who from the judges who are leading figures added to the activity and excitement at • The educational strand of the Swansea University Dylan to craft their own stories using some of Dylan Thomas’ timeless Amongst this year's activities, Swansea in the field of policy and politics, Jeremy the GwyddonLe, namely the Institute Thomas Prize, DylanED, travelled to India in January 2019 works as the source of their inspiration. The Dylan Thomas University launched its new research Miles AM and Assistant Director of the of Physics in Wales, WWF Cymru, and staged a series of workshops and talks as part of the Prize was also represented at the Zee Jaipur Literary festival vessel, the RV Mary Anning. The vessel, Morgan Academy, Dr Aled Eirug. See Science Ltd, Creadigidol, Finning British Council’s ‘Wales in Kolkata’ season of Welsh arts with the 2018 winner, poet Kayo Chingonyi speaking at moored in Cardiff Bay, was officially Ltd, Astro Cymru, IBERS Aberystwyth activity and collaboration. Children aged 8-12 were inspired several events. launched by Game of Thrones star, Iwan The winner of the competition, winning University, and Mad Science.

18 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 19 Events Talks and projects Exploring Swansea’s vibrant writing scene: The Creative Writing Outreach Project • Mark Jones, from the Over the years colleagues have come project seeks to address is to discover the Creative Writing MA in the following Department of Adult up with wonderful SPIN placements how we can maximise our efforts to months once all of my research is done.” Continuing Education, that have given students invaluable reach out to the writers in our community CREST manager Steve experience and the chance to develop as much as we can to our current student “The other side of the job - writing tweets Williams, Lord Mayor David their skills. This year has been no body. for the Creative Writing Twitter - is also Phillips, Pro-Vice-Chancellor exception, with some students gaining its own rewarding experience. It's a Martin Stringer, James marketing and events experience through So, we’ve set Daniel Davies, Creative wonderful feeling sharing events and Thomas, service provision working on the Being Human Festival Writing MA student, the task of opportunities for people in our own local manager for mental health in the first semester and others getting interviewing people from local writing writing circle, MA students or otherwise. services, Vanessa Knighton, their teeth into various research projects groups, current students and lecturers to Having people reply to the tweets really occupational health and this semester, including Professor David explore the topic further. After doing this feels like a community is growing around Nick Andrews,of the Wales Turner’s research into diversity within initial research, Dan will turn his findings us.” School for Social Care the current History curriculum, Dr Dion into a report that will help to inform future Research at the launch. Curry’s research into political trust and outreach and recruitment strategies. Professor Nuria Lorenzo-Dus’ research into the extreme right’s use of the Jade Hobby Education at the heart of important internet, all of which we hope to cover in upcoming editions of the newsletter. Here are a few words from Dan (pictured), describing his experience so boost to mental health services However, this time around the spotlight far: is on Associate Professor Francesca Swansea University is playing a key role individuals to live the life they want to stakeholders attended a special launch Rhydderch’s unique Creative Writing “I didn't expect it to, but my time as in a new initiative aimed at using the lead and for them to become experts in event at Taliesin Arts Centre at the Outreach Research Project. a research assistant has been a very power of education to improve mental their own self-care. University’s Singleton campus. introspective experience so far. It's the health services in the city. The project was conceived by Francesca first time I've had a job that's allowed Manager of CREST Steve Williams, Endorsing the project, Lord Mayor of Rhydderch and I. Due to its nature, the me to sit down and plan what I have to Based at Community Recovery Education who opened the launch event, said: Swansea David Phillips said: “This will Creative Writing MA not only tends to do in a quiet, thoughtful manner. and Skills Training (CREST) in Cwmbwrla, “This recovery college will provide the create an environment where people appeal to students coming straight out of the college aims to build up participants’ opportunity to transform people’s lives in who have experienced mental health their undergraduate degrees but to the “I'm learning more and more about how self-esteem and confidence at the same a positive and empowering way working issues can feel safe, welcomed, accepted more mature student who seeks to turn I work in an office environment, and time as their skills. with educators in partnership.” and able to reach their full potential – it is their lifelong passion for writing into about the way I work in general. To say a much-needed and excellent project for something more tangible. the job has been exciting and worthwhile Mark Jones, academic lead for the The University has collaborated on the Swansea.” would be an understatement. I'm looking University’s Department of Adult project with Gower College Swansea Therefore, one of the main areas the forward to starting writing the report on Continuing Education (DACE), explained and the University of Wales Trinity Nick Andrews, of the Wales School that people experiencing mental health Saint David to offer further education for Social Care Research based at the The Roy Knight Lecture, May 2019 The subject complemented the focus of the can often be excluded from mainstream engagement and learning opportunities University, described the development This lecture commemorates Roy Knight who Centre for the Comparative Study of the opportunities such as employment, designed to help not only with personal of the college as being in the true spirit was Professor of French (later of Romance Americas (CEPSAM) on ‘Green Hispanisms’. education and training. This, in turn can goals but also to act as a potential step of education as defined by Brazilian Studies) at Swansea University from 1950- The lecture was warmly received by an lead to loneliness and worsening mental to further education, higher education or educator Paulo Freire – “the primary aim 74. He was one of the leading scholars in appreciative audience which included health and wellbeing. employment. of which is to create a world in which it is the field of French seventeenth-century tragic colleagues from both Cardiff universities. easier to love.” drama. He died in Swansea in 1999. The He said: “Day centres and day DACE will look to develop a reading lectures alternate annually between French, Professor Hart, who has a long association opportunities have helped reduce some group, offer taster lectures and Swansea University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Spanish, Italian and Comparative topics. with the Department of Modern Languages, of these difficulties but are not enough to experiences of higher education, as well Martin Stringer added that the University Translation and Interpreting, having acted fully support those on their own.” as a short module experience that meets was proud to be involved in such an This year’s lecturer was Stephen Hart as PhD external examiner and external the needs of students within the recovery exciting and innovative project: “This is (pictured), Professor of Latin American assessor for Taught MA programmes, is one Recovery colleges, which are increasingly college. Mark Jones added: “We want to an important development for supporting Studies and Pro-Vice-Provost at University of the best known figures in Hispanism and being developed across the UK, are use an educational approach to improve those people experiencing mental health College London. The lecture, entitled ‘Re- is enthusiastic about future collaboration learning establishments which offer the health and to complement support and removing the barriers to education.” greening the Americas’ First Saint: Santa between Swansea and UCL, particularly in possibility of change and transformation already offered by Swansea Council and Rosa de Lima’, outlined the ‘ecological the Green Humanities. for people who want to rebuild their lives. Swansea Bay University Health Board.” The Swansea Recovery College will be environment’ of Santa Rosa’s miracles. Lloyd Davies opening its doors for an open day in the The aim of the new college is to support To mark the college’s development, summer. 20 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 21 Employability Employability An outstanding Fair gives students an insight into the world of work Following the success of the pilot, this They were keen to point out, however, result for staff year’s Employability Fair returned with that if students want a career working a bang. To try and get a sense of the for Parliament but are not interested in experience of the fair from a student’s working within the Select Committee then and students perspective, we sent Nathan Phillips there are still a variety of roles available (3rd Year English Literature and Creative including Social Media Officers, COAH has received its highest number Writing and Employability Fair Volunteer) Tour Guides, Graphic Designers and of awards for Outstanding Contributions along to some of the talks. His report is Librarians. to Employability. below. Another big hit with students was the Debbie Marshall and Jade Hobby On Tuesday April 2 the College of Arts “Working for the University” panel, would like to congratulate all of this and Humanities successfully hosted its which allowed those with an interest in year’s dedicated and talented winners annual Employability Fair in the Taliesin working for a University to gain an insight (pictured right) - thank you for being a Arts Centre. Students were able to talk one- into what it’s like behind the scenes. The pleasure to work with! to-one with over 20 different employers, panel included Classics lecturer, Stephen Pictured: Nick Taylor Collins, Elaine Canning, Mac McMillan, Kate Murray, Helen Gray, including the BBC, Parliamentary Harrison, who provided an insight into A list of the awards is below. Catherine Lloyd-Bennett, Lydia Hobbs, Jo Berry, Stephen Harrison, Alexia Bowler, Nathan Phillips Outreach and the International Dylan a career in academia and Director Jo Berry and Stephen Harrison managed eight interns who worked on highly competitive field, with a business Thomas Prize, to find out about the many of Student Services, Kevin Child and Funded by HEFCW Enhancing Civic a variety of sites including the Guild idea that combines creative skills opportunities available to them after Employability Officer, Debbie Marshall, Mission and Community Engagement, Jo Hall, local schools, the award ceremony and academic knowledge to develop they graduate. Students were also able who provided an insight into working in Berry and Stephen Harrison developed itself and the Hay Festival. innovative educational material. To top to attend presentations, question panels, Professional Services. Some of their key the Ancient World on Film project. it all, she has also found time to write workshops and a networking lunch with pieces of advice were to network to find Working with local organisations such Alexia Bowler her way on to the longlist for the New writers, business advisors and guests opportunities, secure a job to get your as Swansea Prison, the project included In 18 months Alexia has built a full Welsh Writers Award! from the worlds of media, heritage, the foot in the door and aim to work your way innovative, embedded employability programme of employability events for Civil Service, and many more. of publishing within Parthian from the up, and always look for placements both opportunities for 20 students, working the Department of English Language Lydia Hobbs editing process to book marketing. in and out of the University environment. on the production of four short films. A and Applied Linguistics in COAH. Lydia Hobbs won a student award The Fair gives students the opportunity When I caught up with Eddie after his fantastic example of integrating high This includes visits from archivists, for her fantastic work in creating and to ask questions and gain an insight talk, I asked him for some advice on The event finished off with talks from impact research and employability. AI developers and the National promoting opportunities for Welsh. into where their degree can take them how to begin a career in the publishing entrepreneurs and the media which also Crime Agency, and opportunities for after they graduate. It also gives them industry. He said: “Be enthusiastic about pulled in massive audiences. Nick Taylor-Collins students to work with educational and Seren Global Media the chance to find out about the many the publishing process and show a love Nick has introduced a new module for health practitioners. Alexia’s tenacity, Seren Global Media has been central placement and internship opportunities for books, learn how to be adaptable Initial feedback has indicated that this English Literature at Swansea, the first friendliness, and insight has been key to the success of Media Studies in on offer, which will allow them to gain and, finally, prove that you are someone year has been another roaring success of its kind anywhere, showing how to engaging employment partners and the College of Arts and Humanities. experience within the working world worth trusting as you are being entrusted and the team has already started employability can be embedded in a students. Providing high quality internships ready for when they leave university. with an author’s life’s work.” planning to make next year even bigger truly innovative way. Focused on hyper- that translate into jobs, sponsoring and better to help provide students with contemporary literature longlisted on Mac Macmillan, Brittany Murphy, Excellence Awards for students and There were 12 different free events For students who were interested in a the best start once they leave Swansea the International Dylan Thomas Prize, Nathan Phillips playing a key role in the department’s throughout the day that students were career in politics there was plenty on University. the module gives students access to This award is a big thank you to three industry panel, Seren’s contribution is able to attend whilst also, of course, offer, including a presentation from the literary agents, publishers, marketers, students whose initiative and energy vital to our students. We look forward to getting some free pizza. One of the first Parliamentary Outreach team. They Pictured: Nathan with his award and prize judges, all the while reading made COAH Employability Fair 2019 continuing this highly valued partnership presentations of the morning was from explained the different roles within a for ‘Outstanding Contribution to and critiquing brand new literature. a great success. Mac and Brittany, as in the future. Eddie Mathews from Parthian Books. Select Committee and talked all about Employability’ at this year’s Swansea The module links up with the College’s College reps, and Nathan, as a student Eddie explained the different aspects their fantastic graduate programme. Employability Academy (SEA) Dinner Cultural Institute, which creates a volunteer, worked in partnership with Neath Port Talbot Hospital placement option for these students the College to create an Employability Innovative collaborative project between Ella Thomas, a second year Media and Communication and implement marketing and PR skills that I had been taught to extend the module experience still event tailor made for COAH students. Neath Port Talbot Hospital and Applied Student, is taking part in a WoW placement as Social Media on my course, such as managing social media platforms and further. Based on this excellent work, Nathan Linguistics that has given students the Assistant to Dr. Ersin Hussein, Department of Classics, Ancient designing layouts for public facing documents (e.g. leaflets). is now on a SPIN placement with unique opportunity to observe health History and Egyptology. Ella said: I have also developed valuable administration skills, such as Elaine Canning the Employability Team. Great work communication amongst practitioners time management. Creating multiple fantastic placement everyone! and patients at their Rapid Diagnostic “I have been responsible managing future contributions to As a result of my placement I am eligible to gain the SEA opportunities for students to work on Centre and research and review how the departmental blog Hieroglyphs, Heroes, and Heretics and award, which will greatly enhance my career prospects after cultural initiatives that are externally Kate Murray information is given to the patients I have worked closely with Ersin to create an official annual University. The amount of support received from Ersin has facing and with national and In true entrepreneurial style, Kate through leaflets. Their resulting reports departmental newsletter. Duties have included emailing staff been amazing and has greatly enhanced my confidence international impact, such as the Being entered Swansea University’s Big Pitch will have a tangible real-world impact and students (current and alumni) for contributions to the and belief in my own capabilities. I would recommend Human Festival and the International competition with only 24 hours’ notice as they will be used to inform all future newsletter’s content and helping in the design and layout of undertaking a placement to all students who wish to improve Dylan Thomas Prize, for which Elaine and was selected as a winner from a communications at the practice. the newsletter. The placement greatly helped me to develop upon their academic and personal skills.

22 College Newsletter Summer 2019 College Newsletter Summer 2019 23 Performances

Menna Elfyn and Fflur Dafydd were the featured artists at the Language Memories in Wales event at Volcano Theatre, Swansea, on Thursday, June 6. They delighted the audience with their live poetry and music in an inter- generational and inter-linguistic performance exchange.

Menna and Fflur also engaged in a question and answer session after their performance with the public and the organisers, Dr. Federico Lopez-Terra and Dr. María Fernández-Parra, both from the College of Arts and Humanities, Department of Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting.

The event was funded by the Language Acts and Worldmaking project by the AHRC and supported by Wales PEN Cymru. Successful year ends on a high note A very successful year for music at Swansea concluded on June 19 with a performance of A German Requiem by Johannes Brahms in the Great Hall. The choir comprised current students from across the University, members of staff, and alumni; the solo roles were performed by renowned singers Elin Manahan Thomas and Robert Davies, and the performance was conducted by Ian Rutt (Director of Music). This was a real milestone for the University, and a huge challenge – and our students deserve to be very proud of what they achieved.

Concerts earlier in the year included the annual Chancellor’s Concert (March 20), which featured our music scholars as soloists, and the annual Student Showcase (April 6), featuring the Wind Band, Big Band, Choral Society and Show Choir. Earlier in March, the University’s Orchestra performed with members of The Welsh Sinfonia in the Great Hall.

The annual musical production in Taliesin this year was Legally Blonde – an • Look out for more of the same in to prepare these performances and really immensely challenging show which our 2019/20. New initiatives are likely to value the support of staff, so please come performing arts societies pulled off with include individual concerts by the University along and hear them next year. For more real style and skill. They were rewarded Wind Orchestra, Big Band, and University information, including opportunities to get with great audiences, including a sell-out Chamber Choir, as these groups develop involved, talk to Ian Rutt (i.c.rutt@swansea. final show. further. Our students work incredibly hard ac.uk).

24 College Newsletter Summer 2019