About
I am a cultural sociologist currently working as an Anniversary Fellow on a project called: 'Experimental Filmmaking and the Cultural Sociology of Place.' I have a background in art theory and sociology, and I am often to be found working between sociology departments and contemporary art galleries. I am also book review editor at Cultural Sociology and convene the BSA Sociology of the Arts study group.
Living Musuems
My current research explores living museums through ethnographic and creative research methods. I explore how these musuems fabricate belief in place through their spatial and relational practices.
Experimental Filmmaking and the Cultural Sociology of Place
My current postdoctoral project is an experiment with genuine and sustained academic and artist co-production in the making of a nonfiction film. My intention is not only to experiment in the development of novel visual methods, but also to reflect on the prccess of co-production: what do we, as sociologists, gain by giving up some of the authorial control over our work to practicing artsits?
Visual Methods
My PhD used filmmaking as a research method. It was exhibited in galleries and can be viewed here.
I am comitted to making spaces for the distribution and discussion of visual research in the social sciences. I initiated and curated The Sociological Review's Image-Maker in residence scheme, which highlights visual work speaking to sociological themes and co-curated the research film festiavl Screening the Social.
Art Worlds
My core interest is in the cultural sociology of contemporary art. I have published on the architecture of art galleries, and the notions of 'publicness' that discipline the UK professional arts. My research has also looked at 'invisible' labour in the art world of work, such as gallery technicians. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked on a project looking at the cultural, social and economic impact of the pandemic on independent art workers.
I am always open to meeting those who share my research interests, even if just for a chat or with a view to collaborations, so do get in touch if you think we should talk!