Visual Storytelling

Content

MA Visual Storytelling at the LCC is an exciting new addition to the Faculty's postgraduate portfolio. MA Visual Storytelling encourages students to look critically at the role of storytelling, in particular narrative and sequential thinking using visual means. Contemporary culture is influenced by rapid technological change and this has a profound effect on how we transmit, receive and understand messages and information. Increasingly the role of the single and serial image in sequential and non-sequential forms has become more significant.

The relationship between the image and the word has become more complex as both old and new media are (re)defined by both the means of production and transmission. These changes are creating new dialogues between users and creators in both commercial and social arenas that employ narrative/storytelling devices and techniques. The context for this lies within the business, cultural and social environments that utilise and benefit from the expertise and skills of visual analysis: problem setting, problem finding and problem solving.

The course is a specialised programme of study in the thematic exploration of storytelling, encouraging you to explore key aspects such as narrative and sequence within your own practice. The course has an emphasis on practical design, supported by theoretical and contextual components and an emphasis on the application of clear research methodologies.

The programme of study allows you to engage with a deeper level of understanding of the role of the contemporary designer/maker through the investigation of authorship, narrative, sequence and navigation The course of study explores narrative and sequential methodologies, visual editing, and key areas such as metaphor, metonymy, synecdoche, irony, humour and inter-textuality for example as essential tools for the understanding of storytelling and visual communication. The course is structured to run in parallel to the existing MA courses in the Faculty and shares common units of study.

Structure

Phase 1

Phase 1: Development, Narrative is based upon practical assignments, key lectures and workshops that develop your own practice in relation to the understanding of narrative. The exploration of narratology: the forms, techniques and theories that inform your developing understanding of the role of authorship, text/content/message - in all its manifestations and the relationship between the story and how it can be interpreted and mediated through visual strategies. During this period you will test your ideas concerned with the development of your Major Project Proposal. A programme of research methods lectures, seminars and case studies supports this, intended to assist the writing of your outline Major Project Proposal at the end of Phase 1.

Phase 2

Phase 2: Definition, Sequence during this Phase you will continue to define your major project ideas and approach to the research and investigation related to the further development of your work. The major investigation in Phase 2 is concerned with the exploration of the sequential - the methods and tools that will assist in your understanding of the role of linear and non-linear thinking in the organisation and structuring of information, messages and content. The practical investigation of the authorial role of the contemporary designer/maker as a mediator of content as well as the more traditional definition of form-giver is supported by workshops, lectures and seminars as you continue to develop and define your Major Project.

Phase 3

Phase 3: Resolution allows for the intensive research and development of a self-initiated Major Project. The testing of ideas in practice, through critical reflection, tutorial guidance, peer review, appropriate industrial collaboration and mentorship is key to the development of the project. This work culminates in the presentation of a practical major project outcome together with a supporting major project report. Alternatively you may elect to submit a Major Project thesis with supporting practical work.

All three phases of the course are underpinned by a core postgraduate lecture programme from key practitioners and postgraduate staff and workshops in areas such as Letterpress, Printmaking and Photography, together with opportunities to visit museums, galleries and design studios.

Dedication

1 year (45 weeks), full-time.