Issey Kane, is a PhD student at the University of Melbourne who is researching the intersection of public and cultural policy to explore the fifty year-long project that is curating Australia's national identity through film.

Raised in Singapore from an early age, Issey embarked on her academic journey at the Australian International School before graduating from the International Baccalaureate program in 2016. She pursued her passion for the arts, earning a Bachelor of Arts with majors in Media and Communication and Film and Cultural Studies from the University of Melbourne. Continuing her scholarly pursuits, she obtained a Master of Arts and Cultural Management in 2022 and has just begun her PhD as of February 2024 after spending a semester teaching at the University in film and visual media classes.

Beyond the surface of cinema, Issey's research delves deep into the nuances of representations and aesthetics within National Cinemas. Her focus lies in deciphering the cultural resonance embedded in films and understanding their impact on audiences. Of particular interest to her, as a lesbian, is the portrayal of gender and sexuality in these national films, and the industrial landscape that shapes their narratives through policy on funding, distribution, and exhibition.

Through her work, Issey strives to uncover the intricate connections between film, culture, and identity, shedding light on the broader socio-political landscape of Australia through a contemporary and historical lens.

Join us as we explore Issey’s journey as a young lesbian in today’s world and the subtle prejudices that still exist; the queer identity in public spaces; the importance of self-censorship when travelling; the continuous nature of ’coming out’ in a hetero-normative standard of most societies; the impact of Pride and D&I movements for young gay lovers; the impact of institutional gender dynamics; what’s the best way to navigate the queer gender labels; the importance of honest representation of self and listening…and so much more!

The Modern Crone team -

Theme music and season intro tracks:

Sam Joole:

www.samjoole.com

Cover design and photography

Luana Suciu

https://www.instagram.com/luanasuciu/

Luanasuciu@gmail.com

Voice editing:

Christopher Hales - Mask Music Studios

maskmusicstudios@outlook.com