I’m sorry for another lame AML 2016 Conference-related post, everyone. Or am I? (See previous posts here and here.)
Here are my questions:
* What about a conference theme? Should we have one? If so, what your thoughts or ideas? What has been done in the past?
* Putting aside the issue of a conference theme for a moment: what are your suggestions or thoughts regarding a keynote speaker or speakers for the AML 2016 Conference in Laie, Hawaii?
I know some people who might be interested in speaking on local church history/arts and/or Oceanic LDS arts/literatures in general. But I’m also interested in who you know and would like to hear from. Nominations? Wishes? Pipe dreams?
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On an unrelated note: I’d like to give a huge thank you to Elizabeth Beeton who continues to steer our website and blog through various crises and perilous encounters. And thank you to all those who continue to post and comment and promote on social media. I really enjoy your insights and expertise.
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Hope to hear from you!
Sadly, I have never been to an AML Conference nor will I be able to attend this one, but I can say:
Yes, there have been themes in the past. Of course, not all sessions held to theme and much of the programming focused around who was going to attend and submitted things to present.
I think it would be interesting to continue the debate idea that James Goldberg started with this year’s mini-conference.
Thanks Wm. Yes, the debate! Always lively. Thanks for your thoughts.
As far as keynotes go, it’s probably best to go with someone local–unless the budget allows you to fly someone in. In the past keynote speakers have been all types of artists: writers, visual artists, musicians, etc. I’d personally like to see a writer or critic give the talk. If you have the budget to bring someone out, I think Bruce Jorgensen, Levi Peterson, Phyllis Barber, Susan Elizabeth Howe, or Gideon Burton would be great.
Theme: Nephi Anderson in the Twenty-first Century.
And I’m only half-joking.
Scott, thank you. And thank you. Not sure what’s going to happen next spring but I’m forging ahead until something stops me. Hopefully it will all come together and there will be enough to lure people out.
It’s not likely that I’ll be able to attend, but I’d be interested in a conference that explores Oceanic LDS arts/literatures.
Tyler, I think you’re right, we should take advantage of that opportunity. That’s part of why Margaret pushed to do this in Hawaii. I know many people would have difficulty getting out here, but hopefully we can find a way to involve people who can’t make it. I wish we had a slush fund to help with airfare.