An arts/humanities interdisciplinary conference examining the cultural reception, representation and reaction to flesh and blood or imaginary/fantastical animals in contemporary or historical contexts. Suggested themes include cultural aspects of the following kinds of objects of study:

Sciences: taxonomies, evolution, veterinary practice, animal testing, technologies. Philosophical and Religious discourse. Toys and playthings: transitional objects, illustration, adverts, art, graphic novels. Written texts: popular fiction, children's literature, plays, novels, non-fiction, graphic novels and poetry. Moving pictures: films, documentaries, TV, cartoons and other animated texts. Human/animal interaction: girls and ponies, birdnesting, companion animals, hunting, shooting and fishing, conservation, charities and welfare. Exhibition and display: circuses, zoo, museums, music hall and showgrounds.

For further details or to submit abstracts (deadline 1st February 2003)please contact: