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Ian Dennis

Mr Ian Dennis

Lecturer in Archaeology (Study Leave 2022/3 (Semester 2))

School of History, Archaeology and Religion

Overview

Research interests

My current research interests focus on the use of experimental archaeology to explore craft manufacturing techniques from Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age and Norse Britain.

I am particularly interested in:

  • Bornais Viking antler combs and associated working debris in order to understand the manufacturing process
  • Recreating the Starr Car Mesolithic antler headdresses
  • Prehistoric lithic technology
  • Archaeological illustration

I am an active field archaeologist and have been involved in the excavations at numerous sites in Wales and England. I am currently involved in:

  • Isca, the legionary fortress at Caerleon
  • Islands  in a Common Sea, Isles of Scilly

Research projects

  • Bornais Mound 2 and 2a artefact reports and illustrations
  • The Times of their Lives
  • Anglo-Saxon England c.580-720: The Chronological Basis
  • Isles of Scilly, Islands  in a Common Sea

Impact and engagement

I am currently involved with:

SHOREWATCH project: Impact of coastal erosion on the archaeology of the Isles of Scilly

Publication

2023

2018

2016

2008

Adrannau llyfrau

Erthyglau

Monograffau

Teaching

I currently teach the undergraduate Archaeology modules: HS2429 and HS2430 Archaeological Illustration and HS2125 Analysing Archaeology: Making

I also teach module HST929 Artefact Illustration as part of the MA scheme.

Biography

Education and qualifications

1989-1992 Cardiff University: BA Honours Archaeology

1981-1983 Bourneville college of Art & Design: DATEC 1st Graphic Design & Illustration

Career overview

2000 to present Archaeological illustrator at Cardiff University

1992-2000 Freelance archaeologist and Illustrator

1983-1989 Graphic designer and printer

Notable achievements

Dogū figurine illustrations prominently featured in exhibitions at The British Museum and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts.