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About the Conference
AFAR learned a lot over the last eighteen years, as we attempted to produce a new and improved recipe for archaeology conferences that our guests found enriching and enjoyable. We didn't step out of the box, we blew the box up and upgraded it to a groovy cube. Although we fell short of our goals each and every year, we now look back with pride on the offerings we created and the memories we made. Hosting two conferences a year and the growth of our other programming certainly put a strain on our batteries and when the pandemic came along, the decision was made to push pause on the Maya at the Playa and Maya at the Lago Conferences. In the years since we suspended the conferences, we've learned just as much as we did during our years of hosting them. During the hiatus we finally had some down time to reflect on what worked with our conferences and what didn't work. We brought people together to laugh and learn and that's what we are most proud of and that's what we missed.
After a brief hiatus, we are thrilled to announce the revival of AFAR's Maya conference offerings in the form of a brand new conference offering, The Maya at the Mouse Meetings. This exciting and unique conference brings together Maya archaeologists along with noted museologists, film makers and theme park designers to explore the ways the Maya past is presented to people. Archaeologists recreate the past, presenting narratives for learning about the Maya by re-creating their ancient landscapes, understanding their artifacts and interpreting their art and iconography. The creators of Museum exhibitions, film and theme parks try to expand the discussion of these narratives by reaching out to wider audiences. Through presentations, panels and workshops these different creatives share how they use storytelling and design and how we might better work together to learn and excite about this magnificent culture. If you are interested in Maya archaeology, set design, story telling, the use of objects to construct narrative, or if you just think it is cool for these different voices to share their thoughts on the same stage for the first time, this conference is for you!
Why Maya at the Mouse? The backdrop of this event will be in the heart of Walt Disney World at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is a grand and opulent resort located within the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando,Florida. Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and the American Southwest, the resort's design elements are a stunning blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics. The resort showcases a variety of architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial Revival, Moorish, and Southwestern Pueblo. These styles are evident in the intricate detailing of the buildings, from the ornate arches and courtyards to the adobe-inspired exterior finishes. Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is a truly immersive experience that transports guests to a world of Mexican and Southwestern charm. The resort's attention to detail and commitment to cultural authenticity make it a truly special place to host a conference.
Our confirmed lineup will include:
Alejandra Alonso, Jaime Awe, George Bey, Michael Callaghan, Jennifer Gerstin, Jorge R. Gutierrez, Joan Hartwig, Brigitte Kovacevich, Victoria Lyall, Joe Rohde, Mat Saunders, , & Marc Zender
Date: February 27 - March 2, 2025 Location: Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, 1001 W Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830