David Rousell: Critical Forest Studies, New Animisms, and the Elemental Turn
This talk will share examples of recent research in Critical Forest Studies, an emerging field dedicated to relational and transdisciplinary research with forests. Video and audio works will be shared with a view to opening conversations around the ‘new animisms’ and how these theories are reshaping methods of more-than-human research. We will also consider how Critical Forest Studies might contribute to a wider ‘elemental turn’ across the humanities, arts, and social sciences, inclusive of Critical Air, Water, Time, and Energy Studies.
Bio: David Rousell (he/him) is an artist, researcher, and writer who lives and works on unceded Wurundjeri and Bunurong lands in Naarm (Melbourne). He is Associate Professor of Regenerative Education at RMIT University and a founding convener of the Critical Forest Studies Collaboratory. His work is transdisciplinary and spans critical studies in philosophy, education, cultural studies, history, geography, art and design.
WHEN: 14 May 2026
TIME: 3pm – 4:30pm
JOIN:
Meeting ID: 453 919 178 064 0 Passcode: Ys22AK6X
Vitalities Lab 