NecronomiCon Providence: Critical Dialogues on Race and Power in the Weird Genre

NecronomiCon Providence is a distinctive cultural and academic event that has grown significantly since its inception in 2013. Held biennially in Providence, Rhode Island, the convention celebrates weird fiction, art, and academia, with a particular emphasis on the works of H.P. Lovecraft. However, it has evolved into a global festival encompassing all aspects of weird literature, art, film, and culture.

In 2024, the event will take place from August 15th to 18th, continuing its tradition of inclusivity and diversity. This year’s programming promises a rich array of panels, art exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops, each designed to explore the intersections of race, gender, identity, and the weird genre. The 2024 edition will also feature popular events such as the Eldritch Ball and the Cthulhu Prayer Breakfast, ensuring that both long-time attendees and newcomers find much to engage with.

Moreover, the convention’s programming reflects its ongoing commitment to inclusivity, critically engaging with Lovecraft’s legacy while celebrating the contributions of contemporary creators who are expanding the genre’s boundaries. Attendees can look forward to a dynamic blend of academic discourse and creative expression, underscoring NecronomiCon Providence’s role as both a hub for scholarly analysis and a vibrant community gathering.

This year, NecronomiCon Providence will once again draw a global community of weird fiction enthusiasts, with participants from over twenty countries. The event’s international reach highlights the universal appeal of the genre’s themes, such as fear of the unknown and existential dread, which resonate across diverse cultural contexts.

History

NecronomiCon Providence traces its origins to conventions dedicated to the works of H.P. Lovecraft and the broader Cthulhu Mythos. The idea for a large-scale event in Providence, Lovecraft’s hometown, was conceived to honor the writer’s enduring legacy while also exploring the evolving landscape of weird fiction. The convention officially launched in 2013, marking a significant milestone in the celebration of Lovecraftian horror and the weird genre.

The inaugural NecronomiCon Providence in 2013 was a global gathering that attracted enthusiasts, scholars, and creators from around the world. This first convention set the tone for what would become a biennial tradition, characterized by a mix of academic rigor and fan-driven enthusiasm, underscoring the international appeal of Lovecraft’s work and the broader weird fiction genre.

In its early years, NecronomiCon Providence focused heavily on Lovecraft and his immediate circle of writers and artists. The convention featured panels and discussions on Lovecraft’s life, works, and his influence on subsequent generations of horror and weird fiction writers. As the event grew, it began to include a broader array of topics and voices, reflecting the expanding boundaries of the genre.

A pivotal moment in the convention’s history was its decision to critically engage with the problematic aspects of Lovecraft’s legacy, particularly his xenophobic and racist views. Rather than avoiding these issues, the convention embraced them as opportunities for deeper reflection and dialogue, broadening its appeal and positioning it as a space for critical examination of the genre’s roots.

As the convention matured, it incorporated a wider variety of media and cultural expressions, from film screenings to art exhibitions and theatrical performances. This diversification reflected the organizers’ recognition of the many ways in which weird fiction has permeated contemporary culture. Each edition built on the successes of previous ones, gradually transforming NecronomiCon Providence into a major cultural festival that celebrates the full spectrum of weird fiction and art.

By the mid-2010s, NecronomiCon Providence had established itself as a cornerstone event in the world of weird fiction, attracting prominent writers, artists, and scholars. The event played a crucial role in reviving interest in lesser-known figures within the genre, helping to restore them to their rightful place in the weird fiction canon.

Throughout its history, NecronomiCon Providence has remained committed to honoring the past while fostering innovation and inclusivity within the genre. The convention’s evolution reflects broader trends within weird fiction, which has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to events like NecronomiCon Providence that provide a platform for new voices and fresh perspectives.

Cultural Significance

NecronomiCon Providence has evolved into a pivotal event that not only celebrates the weird fiction genre but also engages with broader cultural dynamics. The convention serves as a critical space where art, literature, history, and social commentary converge, challenging participants to reconsider the boundaries of weird fiction.

Initially centered on the works of H.P. Lovecraft, NecronomiCon Providence has expanded its focus to include a wider array of voices and artistic expressions. This expansion is a deliberate effort to address and critique the genre’s historical exclusions and biases. By doing so, the convention repositions weird fiction within contemporary cultural narratives, making it more relevant and accessible to diverse audiences.

One of the most significant contributions of NecronomiCon Providence to the cultural landscape is its exploration of societal anxieties through the lens of the strange and uncanny. The convention’s panels and discussions often delve into how weird fiction articulates modern fears and uncertainties, from existential dread to societal collapse. By connecting these themes to current events and social issues, the convention demonstrates the genre’s potential as a medium for cultural critique.

Furthermore, NecronomiCon Providence plays a crucial role in re-examining the genre’s historical roots, particularly the works of Lovecraft. While honoring the legacy of early weird fiction writers, the convention critically engages with the problematic aspects of their work, such as the pervasive xenophobia and racism in Lovecraft’s stories. This critical engagement is essential in understanding the cultural significance of the genre today, allowing for a more nuanced appreciation of its past while paving the way for more inclusive and diverse storytelling.

The convention’s influence extends beyond literature to the realms of art, film, and academia, making it a multidisciplinary cultural event. The inclusion of art exhibitions like Ars Necronomica, along with film screenings and theatrical performances, highlights the ways in which weird fiction has permeated various forms of media and artistic expression.

NecronomiCon Providence also serves as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together a global community of scholars, creators, and fans. This international dimension underscores the universal appeal of the themes explored within weird fiction. By fostering connections between participants from diverse cultural backgrounds, the convention enriches the discourse surrounding the genre, making it more reflective of a global perspective.

Addressing Lovecraft’s Legacy

NecronomiCon Providence stands out not only as a celebration of H.P. Lovecraft’s contributions to weird fiction but also as a platform for critically examining the darker aspects of his legacy. Lovecraft’s work has been both influential and controversial, praised for its imaginative scope and criticized for its explicit xenophobia and racism. The convention has embraced this duality, positioning itself as a space where Lovecraft’s literary achievements can be acknowledged while also confronting the troubling elements of his worldview.

From its early years, NecronomiCon Providence has engaged with Lovecraft’s legacy in a way that is both respectful and critical. This approach has allowed the convention to serve as a forum for discussions that might not have been possible in more traditional literary settings. Panels often bring together scholars, writers, and critics who explore how Lovecraft’s personal beliefs influenced his work and how these beliefs have been received by successive generations of readers and writers.

One of the key ways NecronomiCon Providence addresses Lovecraft’s legacy is by fostering dialogues that juxtapose his work with contemporary creations that reinterpret or critique his themes. This is particularly evident in discussions around Lovecraft’s portrayal of the “other,” which often reflects his deep-seated fears and prejudices. Modern authors, artists, and filmmakers who engage with Lovecraft’s mythos frequently use his themes of cosmic horror and existential dread to explore issues of race, identity, and power in more nuanced and inclusive ways.

Moreover, the convention actively encourages critical reflections on how Lovecraft’s racist ideologies have permeated the weird fiction genre. By doing so, it not only educates attendees about the historical context of Lovecraft’s work but also challenges them to consider the implications of these ideologies in contemporary cultural production. This critical engagement has led to a broader re-evaluation of the genre, prompting creators and scholars to develop new narratives that push beyond Lovecraft’s original worldview while still acknowledging his foundational role in the genre.

NecronomiCon Providence also plays a significant role in amplifying voices that were historically marginalized or excluded from the genre. Through its programming, the convention highlights the work of contemporary writers and artists who have expanded the boundaries of weird fiction to include a wider range of experiences and perspectives. This not only serves to diversify the genre but also to correct the exclusionary tendencies that were prevalent in Lovecraft’s time.

In addition, NecronomiCon Providence has become a catalyst for ongoing conversations about how to engage with problematic figures in literary history. The convention’s approach serves as a model for how literary communities can grapple with the legacies of authors whose work is both influential and morally problematic. By creating a space for honest and open discussions about Lovecraft’s racism, the convention contributes to a more informed and critical understanding of his place in the weird fiction canon.

Through these efforts, NecronomiCon Providence has helped to transform the narrative around Lovecraft’s legacy. Rather than simply celebrating his work, the convention uses Lovecraft as a starting point for broader conversations about the evolution of the weird fiction genre and its relevance in today’s world. This critical engagement enriches the discourse surrounding Lovecraft’s work while ensuring that the genre continues to grow in ways that are inclusive, reflective, and culturally resonant.

Global Community and Reach

NecronomiCon Providence has established itself as a truly global event, drawing participants from all corners of the world. This international dimension is a testament to the universal appeal of weird fiction and the convention’s success in creating a space where diverse voices can converge. The global reach of NecronomiCon Providence reflects the widespread fascination with the genre and the organizers’ efforts to cultivate a community that transcends geographical boundaries.

The convention’s ability to attract an international audience is rooted in its inclusive programming, which welcomes participants from various cultural backgrounds and artistic traditions. This global participation enriches the convention’s discussions and exhibitions, as it introduces perspectives that may differ from predominantly Western interpretations of weird fiction. Attendees from East Asia, Latin America, and Africa, for example, bring narratives and mythologies that resonate with the themes of the genre yet offer unique cultural inflections. These contributions broaden the scope of weird fiction and challenge the genre to evolve in ways that are more globally representative.

One of the key aspects of NecronomiCon Providence’s global reach is its commitment to making the convention accessible to those who cannot attend in person. In recent years, the convention has embraced digital platforms to live-stream panels, discussions, and other events, allowing participants from around the world to engage with the content in real time. This digital expansion has been particularly important during the global pandemic, which restricted travel and large gatherings. By offering virtual access, NecronomiCon Providence has expanded its audience and demonstrated its adaptability and commitment to inclusivity.

The convention’s global reach is also evident in the diverse array of speakers and panelists it features. Scholars, writers, and artists from various countries are regularly invited to contribute their insights and expertise, further enhancing the international character of the event. These global contributors often bring fresh perspectives to the genre, exploring how weird fiction intersects with local histories, folklore, and contemporary social issues in their respective cultures. This exchange of ideas fosters a richer and more nuanced understanding of the genre, making it more relevant to a global audience.

Furthermore, NecronomiCon Providence has become a significant cultural export, inspiring similar events in other parts of the world. The success of the convention has led to the creation of sister events and satellite conventions that celebrate weird fiction in different cultural contexts. These offshoots not only spread the influence of NecronomiCon Providence but also contribute to the global dialogue on weird fiction, ensuring that the genre continues to grow and evolve in diverse ways.

The global community fostered by NecronomiCon Providence is an active and engaged network of creators, scholars, and fans who contribute to the ongoing development of the genre. This community plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of weird fiction, as ideas exchanged at the convention often lead to new collaborations, publications, and creative projects. The convention’s impact, therefore, extends far beyond its four-day duration, influencing the global weird fiction landscape throughout the year.

Impact on Contemporary Weird Fiction

NecronomiCon Providence has become an influential force in shaping the trajectory of contemporary weird fiction, serving as a crucible where new ideas and approaches to the genre are forged. The convention’s impact extends far beyond its four-day span, as the dialogues and collaborations initiated at the event reverberate through the weird fiction community, influencing both the creative output of authors and the scholarly examination of the genre.

One of the most significant ways NecronomiCon Providence has impacted contemporary weird fiction is by fostering an environment where emerging voices can connect with established figures in the field. The convention provides a rare opportunity for new writers and artists to present their work alongside genre veterans, allowing for a dynamic exchange of ideas. This cross-pollination has led to the development of innovative subgenres and narrative techniques that push the boundaries of traditional weird fiction. Authors who might have started their careers within more conventional horror or science fiction frameworks find in NecronomiCon Providence a community that encourages experimentation and the blending of genres, resulting in hybrid forms that are redefining the genre’s landscape.

Moreover, the convention’s emphasis on critical engagement with the genre has prompted creators to challenge and reinterpret the conventions of weird fiction. NecronomiCon Providence encourages participants to explore new themes, forms, and perspectives, leading to a resurgence of interest in elements of weird fiction that had previously been overlooked or undervalued. For instance, there has been a noticeable increase in works that explore the psychological and existential aspects of weird fiction, drawing inspiration from the cosmic horror and metaphysical dread that Lovecraft popularized, while also incorporating contemporary anxieties about technology, identity, and the future.

The convention also plays a crucial role in shaping the discourse around weird fiction by bringing attention to lesser-known works and authors who have been historically marginalized. NecronomiCon Providence has helped to revive interest in writers whose contributions to the genre had been forgotten or overshadowed by more dominant figures. This has enriched the genre’s canon and broadened the thematic and stylistic range of contemporary weird fiction. The rediscovery and re-publication of these works have introduced new generations of readers and writers to a more diverse and inclusive weird fiction tradition.

NecronomiCon Providence’s impact on contemporary weird fiction is also evident in the way it influences the critical reception of new works. The convention serves as a major hub for critics, academics, and reviewers who shape the discourse around the genre. The discussions and debates at the convention often inform the critical frameworks used to evaluate new weird fiction, setting trends and establishing benchmarks for what is considered innovative or significant within the genre. This, in turn, affects how new works are received by both critics and readers, contributing to the evolving standards and expectations of contemporary weird fiction.

Furthermore, the convention’s focus on interdisciplinary approaches has led to the exploration of weird fiction in various forms of media beyond literature, including film, visual art, and gaming. This has broadened the reach and influence of the genre, allowing it to permeate popular culture in new and unexpected ways. The impact of NecronomiCon Providence can be seen in the increasing prevalence of weird fiction elements in mainstream films, television series, and video games, where the genre’s distinctive blend of horror, fantasy, and speculative fiction is used to explore complex themes and create immersive narratives.

Visual and Performing Arts

NecronomiCon Providence has established itself not only as a literary and academic hub but also as a significant platform for the visual and performing arts, deeply intertwined with the themes and aesthetics of weird fiction. The convention’s dedication to these art forms has enriched the cultural fabric of the event, making it a multisensory experience that transcends the written word and brings the eerie, the uncanny, and the otherworldly to life in vivid, immersive ways.

At the heart of the convention’s visual arts offerings is the Ars Necronomica exhibition, an ongoing showcase that features contemporary artists whose work is inspired by the themes of weird fiction. This exhibition is not just a display of art; it is a curated exploration of how the visual language of the uncanny can be interpreted and reimagined through different mediums. From traditional paintings and sculptures to digital art and mixed media installations, Ars Necronomica serves as a convergence point for artists who explore the boundaries between the familiar and the strange, often delving into themes of existential dread, cosmic horror, and the sublime. The exhibition’s diversity in style and approach reflects the expansive nature of weird fiction itself, which defies easy categorization and thrives on the tension between the known and the unknown.

The influence of weird fiction on the visual arts at NecronomiCon Providence is further highlighted by the inclusion of special projects and commissions that are unveiled at the convention. These projects often involve collaborations between artists and writers, resulting in works that are deeply narrative and thematically rich. For example, commissioned pieces might include illustrations for new editions of classic weird tales or art installations that interact with the physical space of the convention itself, transforming ordinary venues into spaces of otherworldly experience. These collaborations underscore the interdisciplinary nature of the convention, where the boundaries between visual art and storytelling are fluid and dynamic.

In the realm of performing arts, NecronomiCon Providence has made significant strides in incorporating live performances that resonate with the eerie and surreal qualities of weird fiction. The convention often features theatrical adaptations of classic and contemporary weird tales, bringing the genre’s haunting narratives to life on stage. These performances range from traditional stage plays to more experimental forms of theater, including immersive and site-specific productions that engage the audience in unique ways. For instance, a performance might be staged in a historic building or an unconventional space, where the architecture and atmosphere of the location enhance the storytelling, blurring the line between reality and fiction.

Film is another critical component of NecronomiCon Providence’s artistic offerings, with the convention hosting screenings that showcase both classic and contemporary works of weird cinema. These films often explore similar themes as the literature and art featured at the event, delving into the psychological, the grotesque, and the supernatural. The film screenings are typically accompanied by discussions with directors, screenwriters, and scholars, providing attendees with deeper insights into the creative processes behind these works and their place within the broader context of weird fiction. The inclusion of rare or independent films that may not be widely available elsewhere adds to the convention’s appeal, offering a platform for cinematic works that push the boundaries of genre and form.

Moreover, the integration of music and sound into the convention’s programming adds an additional layer of sensory experience. Musical performances at NecronomiCon Providence often draw on the themes of weird fiction, using sound to evoke the otherworldly and the uncanny. These performances might include live scores for silent horror films, ambient soundscapes that accompany art exhibitions, or even concerts by bands that draw inspiration from the eerie and the arcane. The use of sound and music in this context underscores the emotional and psychological impact of weird fiction, demonstrating how the genre can be expressed through auditory as well as visual and literary means.

Through its robust programming in the visual and performing arts, NecronomiCon Providence has positioned itself as a vital nexus for the exploration of weird fiction across multiple artistic disciplines. The convention’s commitment to showcasing and supporting artists who engage with the genre ensures that weird fiction remains a living, evolving tradition, continually reinterpreted and revitalized by each new generation of creators. This artistic diversity not only enhances the cultural significance of the convention but also enriches the overall experience for attendees, offering them a deep, multifaceted engagement with the strange and the sublime.

Upcoming Edition

NecronomiCon Providence 2024

NecronomiCon Providence 2024 promises to be a landmark event, with a distinguished lineup of Guests of Honor that underscores its commitment to the weird fiction genre’s past, present, and future.

Nadia Bulkin, renowned for her eerie and politically charged narratives, Bulkin’s work in weird fiction, including her acclaimed collection She Said Destroy, reflects a deep engagement with themes of power, identity, and trauma.

Poppy Z. Brite, a pivotal figure in horror fiction, Brite’s novels and stories explore the grotesque and the gothic with a unique focus on New Orleans’ mystical culture. Known for works such as “Lost Souls” and “Drawing Blood,” Brite’s influence on queer horror fiction has been profound, making their presence at NecronomiCon 2024 a significant highlight.

Jeff VanderMeer, a cornerstone of contemporary weird fiction, VanderMeer is best known for his “Southern Reach” trilogy, particularly “Annihilation,” which has been adapted into a major motion picture. His work often delves into ecological themes and the strange, making him a leading voice in the genre’s ongoing evolution.

Kij Johnson, an award-winning author whose work spans the boundaries of speculative fiction, Johnson has garnered acclaim for her imaginative storytelling, which often challenges the conventions of genre fiction. Her novel “The Dream-Quest of Vellitt Boe” reimagines H.P. Lovecraft’s universe from a feminist perspective, making her a fitting honoree for this year’s NecronomiCon.

Victor LaValle, a rising star in the world of horror and weird fiction, LaValle’s works, including “The Ballad of Black Tom”—a retelling of Lovecraft’s “The Horror at Red Hook”—have been lauded for their ability to confront and subvert Lovecraft’s problematic themes, particularly around race. His participation underscores the convention’s commitment to critical engagement with the genre’s history.

These esteemed guests, along with many others, will participate in panels, readings, and discussions, contributing to a comprehensive and enriching experience. The 2024 edition of NecronomiCon Providence is set to delve into the genre’s most pressing themes, exploring the boundaries of weird fiction through the lenses of these prominent voices.

Conclusion

NecronomiCon Providence 2024 is poised to be a monumental event, bringing together a global community of scholars, creators, and fans to explore the ever-expanding boundaries of weird fiction. With a stellar lineup of Guests of Honor, the convention will foster deep, critical engagement with the genre, honoring its rich history while pushing it into new and inclusive directions. As NecronomiCon continues to grow in scope and influence, it remains a vital force in the cultural and academic landscape, ensuring that weird fiction thrives as a dynamic and relevant art form.