Necessary Whimsy: Comics-Based Ethnography and How to do It

“Whimsy,” writes Joanna Mann, “provides a glimmer of hope that other ways and worlds are possible if we allow ourselves to be nourished by the energy their surprise affords” (2014 p. 71). This lecture seeks to provide nourishment in the context of our contemporary ontological emergency by offering comics as method. Specifically, we will explore the unique possibilities—and areas for care and concern—associated with the use of comics-based research (CBR) methods in ethnographic contexts, which have their own unique methodological concerns as well as histories around the use of comics as texts. Beginning with a thorough overview of CBR methods, the lecture will specifically describe how CBR may be used for data analysis as well as dissemination of study findings, while also teasing apart how CBR differs from and overlaps with other visual arts-based research methods. Practical recommendations and detailed how-to’s for using CBR—and whimsy-- in anthropology conclude the talk and, after a short recess, we will have a mini-workshop to put our new learning to use. Each participant will make a mini-comic about a facet of their research life, reflecting on the principles of CBR and exploring this modality for themselves. Participants will be provided with paper and marker pens, but should bring any other materials—crayons, markers, colored pencils, etc.—that they want to use.

Host or Publisher CCEF - JCWS