A research led symposium and exhibition organised by Sharon Boothroyd and Marita Fraser with Linda Rocco, supported by the Speaking of Her RCA Research Network.


In recent times speaking in the first person, or the merging of author and protagonist, has had a resurgence, both in academic discourse (Palmer, Cattle) and literature (Kraus, Nelson, Smith). In art practice, literature and academia there appears to be a re-emergence of methods that challenge traditional forms of narration and argumentation. There is now a revitalised discourse around questions such as: What is the place of fiction in academic writing? What theoretical frameworks does auto-fictional writing offer and/or restrict? How can autobiography transcend the personal? Is the ‘I’ gendered? This event will explore and reflect on this movement and its uses within arts research.

Symposium| 9 July | Gorvy Lecture Theatre | 10am – 4.30pm
Keynote Speakers: Beatrice Gibson, Sally O'Reilly and Tanya Augsburg with presentations from:
Adjoa Armah, Federica Bueti, Juliette Blightman, Sharon Boothroyd, Marita Fraser, Niklas Lichti, Charan Singh and Tom Smith

Exhibition |Dyson Gallery, Royal College of Art, 1 Hester Road, SW11 4AN PV: Tuesday 9 July | 5.30pm
(Exhibition continues daily until 12 July. OPEN 10am-6pm)

Exhibiting artists include:
Helen Barff, Juliette Blightman, Esme Boggis, Sharon Boothroyd, Chantal Faust, Rebecca Fortnum, Marita Fraser, Gill Houghton, Tami Izko, Lali Khalid, Janice Levy, Mars, Nadège Mériau, Trish Morrissey, Marianne Mulvey, Ralph Pritchard, Mark Riley, Colette Standish & Poppy Whatmore