Proposal: Brief Outline

My proposal is threefold. First being to study comics at the University of Dundee under Dr. Chris Murray, a comics studies scholar. The University of Dundee is home to several publishing companies, the Dundee Literary Arts Festival and the Scottish Center for Comic Studies (housed at the University).  The 1 year Masters program is based around critical analysis and theory, a burgeoning field that is academically versus creatively based, although there is cross-over. In my studies I hope to bring the Portland-perspective to Scotland, and vice-versa. It's also important to note that this is one of two masters programs in comics studies in the world that is analytical, let alone the only program of it's kind in the UK! 

The second portion would be to create a travelogue comic of my studies, adventures and cultural immersion while in Scotland. I plan to learn about Scottish culture through the VL Angus, a program where Scottish families in the surrounding area invite international students into their homes, or go on outings around town;  a way to see life from their own point of view. I also plan to take bi-monthly trips around Scotland via ScotRail or MegaBus to see notable sites, such as Stirling Castle, and visit Scottish comics conventions and festivals such as Glasgow Comic-Con and the Edinburgh International Book Festival. I have a travel list made, courtesy of my weekly Google Earth tours of Scotland. 

The third and culminating portion of my travels would be to combine comics theory with my travelogue to create a dissertation focusing on the use of hermeneutic images, synecdoches and sensory diegesis in silent comics. The lack of dialogue and emphasis on clear visuals in comics can be an effective communication tool, as  the narrative devise transcends language barriers. Through silent comics, one can share cultural experiences and exploration through visuals that deeply relies on reader interaction. As a Portland comics reader, it's hard to find international comics, translated or otherwise. Studying in Scotland will help bridge the gap in my own comics history and theory knowledge. (Inspiration for this topic draws from my printmaking hero Frans Masereel, who Professor McGovern introduced me to some years ago.)

Preliminary research is being done through the comics studies program at Portland State University, exploring various silent comics, and reading the following:

Critical Approaches to Comics

Transnational Perspectives on Graphic Narratives: Comics at the Crossroads

A Comics Studies Reader

Comics and Language: Re-imagining Critical Discourse on the Form

This is supplemented by drawing everyday, and my DIY publications. 

Sites for more information:
University of Dundee Website
Scottish Centre for Comics Studies
Dundee Comics Creative Space