Sino-Latin American Diplomatic and Cultural Relations

Project Summary:
This project looks at the different ways China and Latin America engage in fruitful diplomatic and cultural connections. Previous studies on Chilean poet Pablo Neruda and his trips to China in the 1950s, for example, show how close the relation between diplomacy and art can be, and this needs to be researched from different perspectives and authors/artists. Also, Chinese artists visiting Latin America have played a major role in strengthening cultural and diplomatic bonds. This proposal seeks to unveil the protagonists of these enriching exchanges from both sides. Students are required to propose a topic considering artists, countries and a timeline as of when in the 20th or 21st century relations between China and the Latin American country chosen began strengthening; how culture plays a major role in the development of diplomatic ties, and ultimately reinforcing the idea that the arts have an impact in political arenas in the context of international relations.

Deliverables:
An academic essay of high standard that can be submitted as sample for postgraduate applications.

Preferred discipline(s):
American Studies, Chinese Studies (Literature, history), Political Science (international relations), Comparative Literature, English Literature, Law, Art History

Project Essential Skills:
Knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese is required. At least B1 level in reading and writing, there will be an interview. Native speakers of Spanish or Portuguese are encouraged to apply. Chinese native speakers with knowledge of Spanish and/or Portuguese are particularly welcome.

Other Selection Criteria (if any):
known interest in the arts, having taken courses appropriate to the research to be conducted

Details of supervision arrangements:
Face to face meetings during the teaching semester, possibility of virtual/zoom outside the teaching weeks.