Holy Cross to Host International Word and Image Conference

Scholars and researchers from around the world will convene at the College of the Holy Cross on June 26, 27 and 28 in order to explore connections between several fields of inquiry during the International Word and Image conference. Holy Cross first hosted the conference in 1999 and since then has alternated such responsibilities with the Université Paris Diderot and the Université de Bourgogne, both in France. The conference is also sponsored by “Interfaces,” an international and award-winning French/English journal.

This year, the focus of the conference will be “Re-Readings and Re-Viewings of Sacred/Archetypal Narratives in Literature and the Arts.” In conjunction with the conference, a special exhibition of William Blake prints will be on display in the Cantor Art Gallery, and internationally renowned scholar and printmaker Michael Phillips of the University of York, will both lecture on Blake’s method in the Cantor Gallery and give a printmaking presentation in the Millard print studio.

Maurice Géracht, the Stephen J. Prior Professor of Humanities in the English department at the College, is the principal organizer of the conference. Describing the nature of the experience, he says, “[The conference] focuses on the dividing line—the interface—between language and the image, two means of expression different and yet inseparable.” Furthermore, noting the conference’s relevance, he states, “The interface is further complicated when the image moves and speaks, such as in the cinema, videos, or theater, but the interface between language and the static image still remains, and its power is enhanced by modern technology.” Therefore, the conference includes studies of literature, linguistics, visual arts and epistemology.

Notable visiting scholars include Paul Mariani, an award winning poet and professor at Boston College and Lilanne Louvel, a distinguished professor at Université de Poitier. Geracht explains, “Unlike most conferences, it’s run like a seminar where every one hears and responds. Established scholars and very beginners have an equal space and time at the round table.”

For more information, visit the International Word and Image Conference website.