Letter from the conference chair
I am excited that this year the ICORIA is coming to the European Green Capital 2016 – Ljubljana, Slovenia. Slovenia, and its capital Ljubljana, is a part of a charming old world Europe, a gem between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, which synthesizes old and new, tradition and innovation, human architecture and unspoiled nature. It is a story to be discovered, a place rich in culture, history, food, scenery and natural wonders.
For more than 20 years the best creative minds of New Europe and beyond have gathered in Slovenia for an international advertising festival Golden Drum where creativity at its best is celebrated. With this tradition in mind, we are delighted to be the hosts of the ICORIA conference on research in advertising.
The conference will be held at the Faculty of Economics, University of Ljubljana (FELU), which is located just north of the city center in Ljubljana. We are proud that it is ranked among the world’s most distinguished business schools (EQUIS and AACSB accredited), acting as a bridge between South Eastern Europe and the West. The university’s inner courtyard invites, with green areas and plenty of space for breaks and discussions. Pictures say more than words, so capture a glimpse by taking a virtual tour.
The theme for this year’s conference is “Challenges in an age of (dis)engagement”. We will do our best to encourage an emotional and friendly engagement, with participants from different parts of the world and different areas of research in advertising. In line with the theme, our keynote speaker from Bruketa & Žinić OM, one of the world’s leading independent advertising agencies, will challenge our perceptions of advertising realities, traditions and the current challenges in this part of the world.
The conference will begin on Thursday, June 30, 2016 with the 3rd Doctoral Colloquium (link to information about the Doctoral Colloquium). A welcome reception and the official start of the conference for most of the participants is planned for June 30 at the FELU. The gala dinner on Friday, July 1, will be held in a hotel within walking distance of the university. Following the last sessions of the conference on the afternoon of Saturday, July 2 we will organize a sightseeing tour of Ljubljana. Since Ljubljana’s city center is a pedestrian zone, the tour will be a city walk, including a funicular ride and visit to Ljubljana Castle, the medieval fortress above Ljubljana, a tourist boat cruise along the Ljubljanica River or a Slovenian culinary experience.
More information about travel and accommodation in Ljubljana will soon be provided on the EAA website and on our Facebook page (ICORIA 2016). We recommend early accommodation booking since Ljubljana is a popular place to visit in the summer.
In the name of the organizing team in Ljubljana I invite you to ICORIA 2016, and look forward to welcoming you to Ljubljana!
Prof. Vesna Zabkar, Conference Chair
