Island Cities and Urban Archipelagos – Conference

The aim of this conference is to explore urban life on islands and archipelagos and brings together researchers from across the world. Islands are often associated with peripherality, yet they have long been important sites for the growth of cities. Physical separation from the mainland and spatial limitations can encourage the transport of products and ideas, improved defence infrastructure, construction of social capital, consolidation of political power, formation of vibrant cultures, and concentration of population.

Fostering dialogue between the fields of island studies and urban studies, this interdisciplinary conference will feature presentations that explore and critique the varied connections between the urban and the insular from a diversity of perspectives on culture, planning, politics, architecture, economy, and environment in island cities worldwide.

Date: From March 7 to March 12, 2016
Location: University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
Main Speakers: John Urry (Lancaster University), Elaine Stratford (University of Tasmania), Stephen Graham (Newcastle University), C.Y. Jim (University of Hong Kong), Sean Mallon (Museum of New Zealand/Te Papa Tongarewa)
Link: Island cities and urban archipelagos