This one-day workshop brings together scholars working at the intersection of queer studies and media theory. It is inspired by two interrelated dynamics. First, we recognize a resurgent interest in theorizing media practice among scholars working in varying disciplinary contexts. Drawing on a robust history of thought about the characteristics of media and their relation to culture, recent scholarship has brought to bear insights about media operations' relationships to historically and structurally marginalized communities. Second, the last three decades have seen the emergence of extensive lines of inquiry in queer studies grounded in analyses of media. From discussions animated by an interest in global cultural practices to microhistories of media usage, scholars have charted a rich cultural terrain of queer media practices. Devised as a venue in which participants can continue to think about the intersection between queer studies and media theory, the workshop seeks to catalyze existing interests with a focus on theoretically oriented projects whose themes and methods have thus far been unexplored.

Note on Format

The workshop contributors will pre-circulate papers, which participants will read in preparation for the workshop. The sessions will feature a brief contributor introduction to the presentation and will be dedicated to discussion. If you would like to participate, email the organizers to register and receive pre-circulated papers. The conference languages are English and German. 

Sponsorship

The Erich Auerbach Institute of the University of Cologne
The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Time & Location: Library Erich Auerbach Institute (3rd floor), Weyertal 59 (back building), 50937 Cologne | 
June 26, 2025, 10 am-5 pm.

With contributions by

Javier Samper Vendrell – Cora Butcher-Spellman & Liz Schoppelrei – Emil Noah Simon – Kyle Frackman – Brad Harmon – Rebecca Jordan – Ben Robbins – Livia Sutter – Sébastien Tremblay – Adrienne N Merritt – Diana W. Anselmo