Films

Professor Stephen Nugent, a major figure in the field of Visual Anthropology, passed away in November 2018.

At Goldsmiths, Steve set up the pioneering MA in Visual Anthropology, and more recently the BA in Anthropology and Visual Practice. Indeed, he founded and for many years directed the Centre for Visual Anthropology at Goldsmiths. In addition to theoretical contributions, and to supporting new generations of visual anthropologists, he made films himself: Where is the Rabbi? (2001), a film about Sephardic communities living in Amazonia, Waila (2009), focused on a Tohono O’odham musician from Tucson Arizona, and Sounds Like a Vintage Guitar (2012), an exploration of the business and craft of making and faking historical electric guitars.

Many people attending the RAI Film Festival will have memories of working or studying with Steve. Indeed, films in this year’s programme benefited from his support (including Even When I Fall and Of love and Law). This event, convened by his collaborator Renato Athias, gives colleagues, students and friends the opportunity to share these experiences, and reflect upon his contribution to the field of Visual Anthropology.