The inaugural lecture of Professor Karina Croucher will take place at 17:45 today -entitled “What’s the point of the past: the value of archaeology and heritage today.”.

The lecture will take place in D2, D Floor, in the Richmond Building

Synopsis
When I started studying archaeology – as a mature student, following an alternative route to University – I assumed archaeology would be all about the past. While looking back in time may be integral to the discipline, I have since recognised that the past is only a small part of what archaeology and heritage can offer. What captivates me is the transformative power these disciplines hold for contemporary society. I am committed to leveraging archaeology and heritage to address societal challenges, fostering wellbeing, and embracing non-medicalized approaches.

My inaugural lecture discusses the journey and some of the projects that I hope make a difference to the world, addressing themes such as dealing with death, memorialisation, identity and place. As part of this I take the past to a variety of audiences, including health and social care professionals, funeral directors, psychologists, school children and refugee/host communities. In this lecture I will highlight the exciting interdisciplinary collaborations that make this work possible, with projects that span arts, humanities, social sciences and health care. I will also reflect upon my motivation to break down barriers – between disciplines, between teaching and research, between academia and our cities and people. Finally, I will discuss implications for Bradford, especially with 2025 City of Culture on the horizon, and explore the lasting legacy of inclusive heritage, arts, and culture for our university and city.