Shetland College UHI lecturer recognised with new title

A Shetland College UHI lecturer has been awarded the title of reader by the University of the Highlands and Islands. Roxane Permar has been given the title in recognition of her international reputation in the field of art.

Originally from America, Permar has worked in public art and socially engaged practice for over 20 years. Since joining Shetland College UHI in 2001, she has contributed numerous programmes, events, publications and projects.

Permar teaches on the university’s BA (Hons) in contemporary textiles as well as modules in art and social practice and creative practice. She recently led the development required for Shetland College UHI to begin offering the University of the Highlands and Islands BA (Hons) in fine art. The course will be available in Shetland for the first time from September with Permar as its site leader.

Permar has presented on feminist art in London, on art and engagement in Reykjavik and at the International Knit Conference in Shetland and organised a virtual symposium. She has also authored and co-authored journal articles and book chapters on topics including ‘Art and Engagement with the Cold War in Shetland’ and ‘Mirrie Dancers: Light and Lace in Shetland’.

Permar’s own art explores themes of people and places through the mediums of sculptural installation, temporary public art, live events, traditional and contemporary textiles, luminous yarns and digital media. Her work has been displayed around the UK as well as in Germany, Russia, Alaska, Japan and Australia.

Speaking about her new title, Permar said: “This title means a lot to me. I value the recognition for my work over many years in the field of art and for introducing socially engaged art practice to students and colleagues in the University of the Highlands and Islands.”

Professor Clive Mulholland, the university’s principal and vice-chancellor, said: “The title of reader is reserved for an academic who has a distinguished international reputation in in their research or scholarship. Roxane has made a significant contribution to art provision at Shetland College UHI and to scholarship on public and socially engaged art. She has also gained international recognition for her own art, which has been displayed across the globe. Roxane is a worthy recipient of this readership.”

Irene Peterson, acting principal of Shetland College UHI, said: “I am absolutely delighted that one of our academic team has been awarded the title of reader by the University of the Highlands and Islands. This title is extremely well deserved and provides an endorsement of Roxane’s international reputation in the field of creative industries and her ongoing efforts to develop our creative industries degree and masters portfolio here at Shetland College UHI.”