Mark Durden

Mark Durden is a Professor of Photography at the University of South Wales, affiliated with the Faculty of Business and Creative Industries and the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group. He holds a PhD from the University of Kent and has taught at institutions including the University of Derby and Staffordshire University. His research focuses on photography, art history, and contemporary art practices, with a particular interest in the intersection of photography and literature, archival practices, and memory studies.

Education:

• Fine Art, Exeter College of Art and Design
• Fine Art, Glasgow School of Art
• MA by Research in History and Theory of Art (University of Kent), focusing on Roland Barthes
• PhD in Photography and the Book (University of Kent)

Research Interests: Durden explores themes such as the photographic book, documentary practices, and the legacy of modernism. His work bridges artistic creation and academic critique, often analyzing how photography engages with historical and cultural narratives. Recent projects include studies on Anselm Kiefer, Daido Moriyama, and architectural photography.

Activities and Publications: He has delivered invited talks on topics like John Goto’s 'Gilt City' (2024) and 'Beyond the Tableau - Photography After Painting' (2023). His publications include chapters on modernism and exhibitions reviews in journals like 1000 Words and 1854 Photography. He actively collaborates with institutions, such as organizing the 'Modernism Architecture Photography Symposium' in 2024.

Advising and Labs: As Director of Studies, Durden has supervised over 20 PhD completions, including notable scholars like Alfredo Cramerotti and Daniel Blaufuks. He is part of the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group, fostering interdisciplinary research in creative fields.