Report on Participation in the 18th EASA Biennial Conference

Antragstellender: Sadaf Biglari
Visual Anthropology, Media and Documentary Practices; Professional School Universität Münster

From July 23rd to 26th, 2024, I had the privilege of attending the 18th EASA Biennial Conference, EASA2024, held at the University of Barcelona. The conference, organized by the European Association for Social Anthropology (EASA), centered around the theme "Doing and Undoing with Anthropology." This event sought to explore the concept of "undoing" anthropology, challenging participants to rethink and reimagine the discipline's practices and methodologies in contemporary contexts.
As a master's student, participating in this conference was a significant milestone in my academic journey. I presented a paper in a panel titled "Forgotten, marginalized, and 'failed' works and lives in the histories of anthropology: challenges for narrating and teaching." My presentation, titled "Lost Oaks: Tracing the Forgotten History of Iranian Visual Anthropology", focused on the neglected aspects of Iranian visual anthropology, highlighting the contributions and challenges faced by this overlooked area. The experience was both enlightening and affirming, as it provided a platform to share my research with a diverse and knowledgeable audience.
The conference featured a rich array of activities, including numerous panels, workshops, film screenings, book launches, and even a city tour. These events not only provided invaluable learning opportunities but also facilitated networking with fellow anthropologists and academics from around the world. Engaging in discussions about the latest research and methodologies in anthropology, I gained new insights and ideas that will undoubtedly influence my future studies.
Being in such a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment was impactful for me, both professionally and personally. It allowed me to discuss my ideas, receive constructive feedback, and broaden my academic network. This experience has inspired me to continue exploring the nuances of anthropology and to contribute to the ongoing dialogue within the field. The knowledge and connections gained from EASA2024 will serve as a foundation for my future endeavors in anthropology. I am immensely grateful to the Santander Mobility Fund for supporting me through the fund and making this trip possible.