Digging The Bigger Picture:

Art and Archaeology Symposium

July 31st/ 1st August 2025

This two day online and in person symposium brought together artists and archaeologists, during Cookham Dig25, to explore creative and archaeological connections. Guest speaker talks, panels and creative workshops highlighted how art deepens understanding of material culture, while archaeology inspires innovative artistic responses.

Four recordings from the first day of presentations are now available, links below. Despite slight tech issues, they’re well worth viewing.

1 Introduction to 'Digging The Bigger Picture' Symposium with Cookham Abbey Artist in Residence, Phyllida Shelley
2 Guest Speaker Dr Antonia Thomas 'Surface, light and time: Mark-making & creative practice in art & archaeology'

3 Guest Speaker Professor Sarah Casey 'Emergency! Drawing and Glacial Archaeology'

4 Digging the Bigger Picture – Artists & Archaeologists Panel discussion - chaired by Archaeologist, Keith Abbott