Looking back: Hideout resident Dr. Robert Mizzi re-works a key academic idea
/To celebrate the fifth year anniversary of The Hideout residency program, we caught up with a number of previous Hideout residents to learn more about their writing projects and their advice for those considering a residency at The Hideout.
2022 Hideout Resident and CANADA RESEARCH CHAIR Dr. ROBERT MIZZI
Dr. Robert Mizzi, Canada Research Chair in Queer, Community, and Diversity Education at the University of Manitoba, joined us at The Hideout in 2022 to work on an academic paper.
Tell us a bit about the project you worked on during your week at The Hideout.
I was invited to write an academic paper that revisits my concept of “heteroprofessionalism,” published in 2013 in an academic journal. Now that the concept has reached its 10th anniversary, while at the Hideout, I explored how scholars and practitioners have taken up the concept over time and what I would update in light of neoliberalism. I am pleased to share that the paper will be published shortly!
What did you enjoy most about your residency week?
I thoroughly enjoyed the daily balance of walking, thinking, cooking, writing, and socializing that shaped my residency week. This balance meant I could write clearly, thoughtfully, and passionately. I ended the week feeling uplifted and rejuvenated, ready to tackle life again.
Why are residencies and retreats so vital for writers?
Residencies and retreats are a form of professional development. They provide spaces for us to connect with other writers, learn their approaches, self-direct our learning, and take risks in our writing. We need these creative and calm spaces to flourish as writers.
Any tips for folks thinking about applying for a residency?
Do not shy away from proposing edgy and creative ideas in your project. The Residency provides a safe and refreshing space to explore new writing landscapes.
Dr. Robert Mizzi is the Canada Research Chair in Queer, Community and Diversity Education and Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba. His most recent book is Queer Studies and Education: An International Reader (Oxford University Press, 2023). Dr. Mizzi is a member of the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame and the Royal Society of Canada.
