Centre for New Writing, Leicester

Description

The Centre for New Writing, based in the Midlands, is dedicated to devolved literary culture. Their goal is to understand the literary landscape of Britain beyond traditional commercial and geographical hierarchies, and actively reshape it.

The Centre's research focuses on practical approaches to literary production and distribution, creating dynamic and innovative writing environments that benefit writers and communities alike. Their commitment to promoting literary diversity informs their annual programme of events. The Centre is particularly inspired by the cosmopolitan and diverse environment of the Midlands. They are committed to raising the profile of regional writing, which they believe deserves wider readerships and greater academic attention. The Centre's research reveals a need for infrastructural support for regional black and Asian writers who have been historically disadvantaged in the commercial and cultural aspects of the writing industry. The Centre's research takes into account the realities of commercial publishing and rejects simplistic dichotomies between commercial lowbrow and non-commercial highbrow writing. They embrace a nuanced and holistic approach to literary production, recognising that writers, audiences, and publics are shaped by institutions and infrastructures. Their investment in literary infrastructure is reflected in their scholarly publications, programming, reviewing, mentoring, commissioning, and publishing activity.

The Centre is committed to cultivating literary publics and exploring synergies between writing and academic research. They encourage two-way dialogue between creative practitioners and academics, enriching both parties. The Centre's teaching and learning approach is reflexive, recognising the contributions students make to research culture. The Centre integrates students into the local literary scene, familiarises them with independent publishers, and provides them with resources to explore independent publishing models, including emerging digital platforms.

The Centre runs an MA in Creative Writing and hosts conferences, workshops, colloquia, lectures, and seminar series open to the general public. They have an archive of recordings of interviews with celebrated writers available for exploration.

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Offers funding

No, this infrastructure does not provide funding.

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University affiliation(s)

University of Leicester
Leicester

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