Salve Regina University is seeking proposals for papers for its eighth annual Conference on Cultural and Historic Preservation, The Interior Decorator in America: From Amateur to Professional, 1850 – 1970. Under the direction of Professor Richard Guy Wilson, the conference will explore the history of interior design and decoration from a wide range of social, historical and cultural perspectives.

Occupying an anomalous position in the world of design, the interior decorator has had an enormous impact upon the interiors of American homes, businesses and institutions. Among those to be considered will be tastemakers, writers, and designers ranging from Catherine Beecher, Stanford White, Candace Wheeler and Edith Wharton to Elsie de Wolfe, Gilbert Rohde, Kem Weber, Henry Sleeper and Sister Parrish.

Proposals are sought for papers that will advance our understanding of the conference theme from a variety of perspectives, including preservation, American Studies, art history, design, literature and other related fields. Proposals from advanced graduate students and junior scholars are encouraged.

Please send proposals to either of the addresses below, including a 150-word abstract and curriculum vitae. The deadline for proposals is January 15, 2004.