The Symbols of Mortality Conference is delighted to welcome Dr Stephanie Holton as one of our speakers. Stephanie will be discussing the funerary symbolism of pinecones, with particular reference to the Romano-British period.
https://t.co/8yLm81FkbI
Exploring the subject of mortality symbolism, in all its many guises, would not be complete without a nod to our furry companions. As such, we are delighted that Dr Lucja Lange will be joining the Symbols of Mortality Conference, next week, to discuss her work on pet memorials.
With less than 2 weeks to go before the Symbols of Mortality Conference opens its doors, speaker announcements will be coming thick and fast. I am delighted, therefore, to introduce Hollie Willis, who will be sharing her research on the Franklin expedition memorials....
#OnThisDay A year ago today, after many years of hard graft, the Symbols of Mortality exhibition finally opened in Orkney Museum. Can't believe it has been a year already. Big shout out to the wonderful Tom Muir and Fran Flett Hollinrake for all their efforts in making it happen.
Pleased to announce that my good friend, and St Magnus Cathedral Curator, Fran Flett Hollinrake, will be speaking at this years Symbols of Mortality Conference. Fran will be sharing the story of HMS Royal Oak, sunk by a German U-boat, and the memorial to those who were lost.
Delighted to announce that Dr Dan O'Brien will be speaking at the up-coming Symbols of Mortality Conference. A well-known figure in the death studies field, Dan will be sharing his extensive knowledge on the subject of funeral invitations, in all their deathly glory.
Well known to many in the death research field, Helen is a Visiting Research Fellow at the Centre for Death and Society, University of Bath, an Honorary Research Associate, University of Bristol, Honorary Secretary of The Folklore Society, and author of 'Traditions of Burial'
With only a month to go before the inaugural Symbols of Mortality conference opens it doors, in the weeks leading up to Saturday 21st February we will be introducing our eclectic mix of speakers.
I am, therefore, delighted and honoured to announce that Dr Helen Frisby will be joining us, with an illustrated talk entitled 'Mourning Jewellery of the Long Nineteenth Century, exploring the emotional symbolism and significance of mourning jewellery in Britain.
The skies above my wee hoose have gone crazy! No fancy camera needed. You can see the lights with your naked eye. The Merry Maidens are having a real humdinger of a party.....
(apologies for quality of image, my phone is broken)
Yes, only 35 days to go before the inaugural Symbols of Mortality conference opens its online doors. Featuring the very best historians/archaeologists in their field, a full cornucopia of deathly related themes will be unleashed. The full programme will be available next week.
As another new year comes forth, it is often customary to reflect on the achievements of the old. But, as a storm rages outside my wee hoose, physically and metaphorically speaking, I simply want to wish you a 2026 full of fun, laughter, love and much peace. Happy New Year folks!
Time for the annual Xmas Tractor Run up here in Orkney. I live atop a hill, and there are tractors as far as the eye can see. Nice one farmers! ๐๐