Welcome to SPICA, the postgraduate journal of Cosmology in Culture, published by the Sophia Centre Press in partnership with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. The journal has emerged out of teaching and research in the Sophia Centre for the Study of Cosmology in Culture, together with our experience in teaching the online MA in Cultural Astronomy and Astrology. Originally established at Bath Spa University from 2002-7, the Centre – and the MA – are a part of the Institute of Education and Humanities at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
Our work can be summed up as the study of the many, varied and rich ways in which human beings relate to the cosmos, and use the sky as a backdrop for their lives, looking to it toOur work concerns the study of the many, varied and rich ways in which human beings relate to the cosmos, and use the sky as a backdrop for their lives, looking to it to provide meaning and encourage action. Astronomy and astrology in the sense they are widely understood now were not distinguished in pre-modern and non-western societies, which explains why we can bracket them together in the wider pursuit of understanding the relationship between humanity, culture and the cosmos. Please download our PDF about the Sophia Centre and Cosmology, Astronomy and Astrology in Culture here.
Current issue: Volume 8.1
Volume 8.1 focuses on Sky Journals. We can all enjoy the experience of awe and wonder when we look at the sky. The papers in this volume acknowledge these feelings and are based on unique journals reporting on direct experience and observation of various aspects of the sky over a month, recorded in journal entries, and a choice of paintings, poems and photographs. These are then discussed and contextualised in the context of cosmology, art, history and literature. The papers included in this volume represent a selection of the best postgraduate work and the purpose is to remind us of the power and importance of the sky in our lives.
Sunsets: transformation of landscape, mind, and perception. Chad Woodward
The sky and clouds as a phenomenological and sensory experience. Grace Cassar
The relationship between clouds and mind. Holly McNiven
The perception and use of colour, shape, frequency, and location of clouds by visual artists. Iza Steiner
Observing clouds in Toronto, Canada. Krystyna Cap
The experience of perception and time through observation of the sky. Leon Hicks
Can observing the sky be a source of enchantment? Tiger-Lily Mileto