The AMC research group kicked off the new academic year with a writing retreat, spending two inspiring and productive days at the beautiful Kasteel Alden Biesen in Belgium. From August 29-30, the group got together for writing and finalising journal articles, chapters, book manuscripts and grant applications.
After a short introduction by AMC chair Aagje Swinnen, the two days were entirely dedicated to conceptualising, writing and editing – interrupted only by lovely break-time walks and joint meals. Thanks to its serene atmosphere and surroundings, with beautiful views of orchards, English and French landscape gardens, Alden Biesen provided a perfect, inspiring environment for everyone’s work. While some rooms were ‘quiet rooms’ only dedicated to writing, others could be used to discuss each other’s papers and current/future collaboration. Later in the evening, the multi-media walk ‘Bilzen Mysteries’ gave an impression of Alden Biesen’s rich history and sparked some interesting discussions on the dos and don’ts of mediating history, literature, and culture. The AMC members hope that this year’s writing retreat was the start of a new, fruitful tradition!
