The study of material culture offers an exciting area for interdisciplinary research, as designed objects and consumer goods have played a pivotal role in the construction of individual and group identities. Material culture research in recent years has continued the field's tradition of probing the intersections of class, gender, and "race," while also incorporating provocative ideas pioneered in the realm of cultural studies.

Proposals for papers approximately 15 minutes in length are invited from those in all disciplines whose work addresses material culture--art history, decorative arts, literature, history, cultural studies, communications, anthropology, sociology, etc. Graduate students are especially encouraged to submit work--this is an excellent environment for new ideas and approaches.

If you're interested in joining us, please forward paper title, abstract of up to one page, and your contact information (including your name, affiliation, address, E-mail address, and phone number) by November 1, 2004 to Ella Howard, American Studies, Boston University. E-mail submissions are preferred. Please feel free to contact me to discuss ideas or questions. For more information on the PCA/ACA, visit the web address given below.