The Laurence Sterne Trust fosters an interest in Sterne internationally, making contacts and keeping in touch with enquiries, research and projects worldwide. Strong relationships have been formed with Germany and Japan. Patrick Wildgust the Curator has visited Chicago, Germany, New York, Japan and Mexico during the course of his work.
International Work
Germany - The Literaturhaus, Berlin
In 2018, immediately after the commemorations in London for the for the 250th anniversary of the death of Laurence Sterne, Patrick flew directly to Berlin, where the Literaturhaus was transforming itself into Shandy Hall for 48 hours. Patrick was invited to bring something from the real Shandy Hall to mark the occasion. A set of old keys found during the restoration were chosen. With these, the Literaturhaus was symbolically opened. Grand celebrations included a complete reading (by well-known German writers) of the newly published Michael Walter translation of Tristram Shandy. Walter translated all of Sterne’s works for this anniversary. There was music (memorably Lillibulero on the noseflute) marbling, exhibitions, and an audience for the readings thoughout the 24 hours.
Literaturhaus Berlin programme for the Laurence Sterne Tercentenary, with artists performing the 24 hour reading of Tristram Shandy at “The Berlin Shandy Hall”
Japan - Yamanashi University
Over several years The Laurence Sterne Trust has developped a relationship with The Yamanashi Prefectural University in Kofu, Japan. This has involved student visits to Shandy Hall, and projects such as Observations/Transformations, which partnered students in Japan with students at Goldsmiths College, University of London in writing and translating haikus based on the moths found in Shandy Hall Gardens.
Professor Michiyo Takano, of the Department of International Studies there, has been instrumental and tireless in fostering this productive partnership.
University of Pennsylvania
Another beneficial partnership has taken place since 2012 with the University of Pennsylvania’s Global Research & Internship Program. GRIP offers “outstanding undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to intern or conduct research with a variety of organizations and companies abroad for 8 to 12 weeks over the summer.” Through this programme we have offered a residency each summer to a student who contributes to our ongoing study of moths in Shandy Hall gardens.
