Curtin University and University of Aberdeen have formed a strong working alliance between their creative arts departments, resulting in an academic staff exchange program, planned joint postgraduate opportunities for students and the announcement of a student literary publication.
Dr Wayne Price, Senior Lecturer within the School of Language and Literature at University of Aberdeen, joined Curtin University’s Dr Rachel Robertson, Senior Lecturer in the School of Media, Culture and Creative Arts, to deliver research seminars for staff and a masterclass for students during a three week visit to Curtin.
Dr Price said his first time in Australia had been an inspirational experience on both a personal and professional level.
“The differences between climate and landscape are quite striking and it has certainly given me ideas for future writing,” Dr Price said.
“The working relationship between the universities has also benefited – what I will take back with me is invaluable.”
Associate Professor Steve Mickler, Curtin University Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor Humanities, said the partnership between the two universities allowed both students and staff to build a range of skills.
“Students can take advantage of experiencing various perspectives and establish themselves as world citizens, developing international knowledge while keeping a sense of contrast,” Associate Professor Mickler said.
“We hope the partnership will allow students to engage with diverse cultures while building kinship with others.”
The universities are working on a student anthology, titled Edge to Edge: Writing About Place, to be published with the assistance of Curtin’s Professional Writing and Publishing students.
“Both universities are geographically located on the ‘edge’ and the peripheral nature of the two cities, Aberdeen and Perth, is something we see as an opportunity,” Dr Robertson said.
“The anthology is a way to showcase the universities and give students a taste of the writing and publishing process.”
Dr Robertson will visit University of Aberdeen in June where she will meet with PhD students and staff.
Edge to Edge: Writing About Place is planned to be published in November.
