UHI MLitt graduate Kat Nickola presented her research at the annual meeting of the European Association of Archaeologists (EAA) last week.
Kat’s dissertation, River, Forest, City: A Deep Mapping Study of Kaiserslautern, Germany, used deep-mapping techniques in a local landscape setting. It was The goal of the study was to use deep mapping techniques in a local landscape archaeology setting, which meant she was able to carry out her research where she lives in Germany.
It was accepted for the EAA meeting, held virtually from Belgrade from September 2-6, and included in a session entitled But how is that Archaeology? This focused on unconventional approaches to archaeology and aims to spark discussion on how (or whether) archaeology can (or should) expand in the future.
Kat explained: “The paper presents my research using deep-mapping techniques which brings in personal, purposeful experiences within the archaeological landscape. The objective was to use encounters garnered out in the field to determine the direction of deeper ‘not-just-archaeology’ research.
“For example, I started with focused walks to archaeological sites like castle ruins and hillforts within the defined area, and, while diving into the history of these, a common thread – the River Lautern – kept emerging. Walking along that river became my first focal point and I methodically and mindfully walked the length of the river from its source in the mountains around the city, along it’s now-underground path through town, and out of Kaiserslautern city limits.
“Along the way, I kept detailed video logs as I encountered any notable or potential archaeology, which led me to further research deep into historical records, folklore, mythology, historical maps and photography, GIS use and art and media – essentially any resource available to help understand the memories held within, or let go from, the landscape around Kaiserslautern.
“Over the course of the study, two other focal points arose from the landscape – the forest that surrounds the region and the footprint of the city’s medieval walls. In finding these common threads across geographical heritage, I was able to bring together a better understanding of the perceived and historical past that is held within Kaiserslautern’s landscape. It was presented within my paper in the form written narrative, artistic mapping, and video montages.”
She added: “I am fascinated by the use of narrative and personal experience in presenting archaeology, and its potential for reaching the public. My dissertation was both a challenge (translating Middle High German and Latin) and truly fun (plenty of outdoor time). By studying part-time, I had enough time to complete my research, while continuing to work full-time as a journalist. Incredibly, I have found a lot of crossover between the two and have even used information from my dissertation in my work.”
Kat described presenting her paper at the EAA meeting as an honour, adding that she was grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to sharing her MLitt dissertation with the attendees.
“It will be a very interesting session with plenty of different approaches, researchers with different backgrounds, and an openness to diversity and new perspectives.”
