Call for Papers: Encounters in the Archive

How can creative practices disrupt power structures within the archive? In March 2025, Autograph and Parse Journal will host a new symposium Encounters: Art, Power and Archives in London to discuss strategies and methodologies to rethink, reimagine and reshape the histories embedded in archival collections.

We are calling for presentations that examine how reactivating archival materials through diverse perspectives and disciplines can challenge dominant narratives. With a focus on decolonial and queer methodologies, the symposium will emphasise approaches that encourage a continual reengagement with archives.

We are looking for a broad range of interdisciplinary voices to present their work. This could include – but is not limited to – proposals that share artistic or scholarly research, creative or social projects, and provocations. You might be a historian, archivist, researcher, educator or artist: or any mix of disciplines. Submissions are encouraged by contributors from all backgrounds.

Encounters: Art, Power and Archives will take place on 18 March 2025 in London.

The work I want to submit was done in partnership with others. Can we present as a group?
Maybe! Include details as part of your proposal and we’ll consider if it will work with the symposium format.

Do I have to be in London or the UK to apply?
You'll present in person at the symposium on 18 March 2025 in London. We aren’t able to pay for travel or accommodation.

Can you pay my travel costs?
No, we are unable to pay travel or accommodation in addition to the speaker fee. However, if you are applying for additional funds through your university or employer, we can supply a letter of support.