- Aston Originals podcast spotlights Archives and Emotions: International Dialogues Across Past, Present, and Future
- The episode of Bright Past, Brilliant Future, hosted by Dr Brian Sudlow, features editors Dr Ilaria Scaglia and Dr Valeria Vanesio
- This landmark volume is already garnering attention, with an official launch event hosted by the National Archives at Kew on 23 January 2025.
The transformative power of archives has been highlighted with the launch of Archives and Emotions: International Dialogues Across Past, Present, and Future, a ground-breaking book published by Bloomsbury.
The episode of Bright Past, Brilliant Future, hosted by Dr Brian Sudlow, features co-editors Dr Ilaria Scaglia and Dr Valeria Vanesio in a deep and thought-provoking discussion about the book's origins, themes and societal significance.
“Archives are not just about the preservation of documents,” said Dr Vanesio, a lecturer at the University of Malta and an expert in archival traditions. “They are places of memory, identity, and rights. They are made by everyone and for everyone.”
Dr Scaglia, senior lecturer in modern history at Aston University and newly-appointed head of the Aston University Archives, echoed the sentiment:
“Without thinking about emotions, we can't fully understand why certain materials are preserved and others destroyed. Recognising this emotional layer doesn't detract from professionalism; it enhances it.”
The episode highlights the book’s multidisciplinary approach, blending archival science with historical research to reveal the emotional dimensions underpinning the creation, preservation and use of archives. From institutional archives to community-driven initiatives, the book calls attention to the ethical implications of archival practices.
The key themes include the emotional layers inherent in archival work, where feelings such as love, fear and attachment influence both the preservation of materials and how they are interacted with. The book also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, with contributions from archivists, historians and scholars worldwide, fostering dialogue to challenge and reshape archival practices. Finally, it emphasises the civic responsibility and advocacy associated with archives, presenting them as democratic tools essential for preserving collective memory and encouraging active civic engagement.
Adding a personal touch, the book’s cover art - a painting by Dr Vanesio’s mother, artist Nunzia Spadalino - beautifully reflects the interplay between archives and emotions, depicting themes of light, memory and loss.
This landmark volume is already garnering attention, with an official launch event hosted by the National Archives at Kew on 23 January 2025. The hybrid event will bring together contributors and audiences worldwide to continue this vital conversation.
For more information about the book and to attend the launch, visit Bloomsbury.com/ArchivesAndEmotions or Aston University’s website.
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
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