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P29


The aesthetics of diaspora 
Convenors:
Pnina Werbner (Keele University)
Mattia Fumanti (University of St Andrews)
Mark Johnson (Goldsmiths, University of London)
Location:
G
Start time:
12 December, 2008 at
Time zone: Pacific/Auckland
Session slots:
3

Short Abstract:

This session will look at relations of property in the diaspora seen through the prism of popular and mass aesthetics - by analysing the symbolic props of self-decoration, celebration, the renewal of links with home and investment back home, and which also allow for the emergence of an ethnic economy based on widely shared aesthetic tastes.

Long Abstract:

This session will look at relations of property in the diaspora seen through the prism of popular and mass aesthetics - by analysing the symbolic props of self-decoration, celebration, the renewal of links with home and investment back home. Transnational relations are asserted in these appropriations by claiming ownership of 'culture' in its material and symbolic forms as well as in the shape of monetary and property investments. Important in the consideration of diaspora aesthetics, and especially in their mass produced form as food imports, clothing, films, videos, cassettes, popular music, CDs, and so forth, are the possibilities such objects open up are not only for celebration of community in the diaspora but also for communication between ethnic groups who may otherwise be divided by language, nationality or prior hostilities. This is particularly evident in the African, Middle Eastern, South Asian and other Asian diasporas. In these, crossovers in art, music, performance and food facilitate shared interaction and common focus. They also allow for the emergence of an ethnic economy based on widely shared aesthetic tastes.

Accepted papers:

Session 1