Located in a grand neo-classical building in Parc des Bastions, the Bibliothèque de Genève is the University of Geneva library. The library hosts events such as exhibitions, conferences, talks, and workshops. Noteworthy among its regular programs is the December exhibition on the history of the Escalade, and the recurring event “Les jeudis midi à l’affiche,” featuring guest speakers discussing graphic posters from the library’s collection.
Speakers Delphine Bongard, Nicole Staremberg and actress Nathalie Boulin present historical texts spanning the 15th to 20th centuries, offering readings and commentary on literary portrayals of supernatural female figures.
The session examines motifs such as Mélusine and other heroines, alternating document presentations with contemporary readings to investigate shifting depictions of power, gender and the supernatural in European literature. It reveals how narratives alternately valorize or demonize women and considers historical printing contexts that shaped reception and cultural memory.
In French.
Adrien Mangili, author of Natural Magic and Free Thought, presents his research on the paradoxical influence of natural magic during the Renaissance and the seventeenth century.
He discusses how natural magic, as an explanatory rival to religion, enabled early free thinkers to reframe miracles as secret forces of nature, thereby challenging theological authority and contributing to the emergence of critical, scientific inquiry.
In French.
Isabelle Marthot-Santaniello from the University of Basel showcases the latest developments in computer vision applied to paleography, specifically focusing on Greek papyri. This event, co-organized by the Bibliothèque de Genève and the Digital Humanities Chair at the University of Geneva, features a one-hour presentation followed by an interactive discussion.
In French.
Independent Geneva-based graphic designer Maurane Zaugg delves into printmaking techniques with a creative and collaborative approach, dedicating herself to artistic, cultural, and political projects. This talk highlights the library’s collection and showcases the vibrancy of regional graphic design.
In French.
Elodie Paupe and Jean-Claude Rebetez spotlight criminal archives from the Ancien Régime through a digital transcription platform. This innovative project is co-organized by the Library of Geneva and the Digital Humanities Chair at the University of Geneva.
In French.
Vincent Schambacher, a graphic artist, delves into the layering of media and texts, traversing spaces from squats to festivals and museums. His 45-minute talk, followed by a discussion, takes place as part of the “Thursday Noon Poster Talks,” an initiative to showcase the Library’s collection and regional graphic design innovations.
In French.
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