Lunc lecture:Reflections on the Basque center in Djúpavik and Basque-Icelandic relationships

Dr. Laborde, along with 3 PhD students, will present an overview on his project studying the development of the Basque Cultural Centre in Djúpavík. The talk will reflect on the history of the Spánverjavígin massacre (1615) and the complex entwined Basque and Icelandic history, but also the role of renewed cultural exchange through the Basque center project, including Basque boat building and music. In the modern era, a cultural center like the Basque center which is dedicated to art and history can also become a driving force for the creation of emotions that help us better understand and live the link between cultural policies and the urgent need to build a relationship with the environment that is respectful of biodiversity.

Dr. Denis Laborde is an ethnologist and director of research at the CNRS (French National Institute of Scientific Research), the director of studies at the EHESS and member of the cultural commission at the Fondation de France. He specialized in Basque music and music as a tool for understanding human societies and complex emotions.