Neuroqueering the University: live illustrating an academic conversation
Recently, I had the pleasure of creating a live illustration for a thought-provoking event at the University of Leeds. The conversation centered around neuroqueering the university, and brought together academics and staff from various disciplines. My role was to visually capture the essence of the discussion, making it accessible and engaging for everyone involved.
Inclusive and respectful imagery
Before the event, I worked closely with the organiser to ensure the imagery would be inclusive and respectful. We discussed key themes, potential visuals, and how to approach sensitive topics thoughtfully. This preparation is always a crucial step!
Key themes
On the day, the conversation flowed naturally, touching on several important themes:
Neuroqueering as a verb: what it means and how it can involve different people.
Labels: their uses, dangers, and the nuances around them.
Unmasking: the benefits and how to facilitate it in classrooms and research settings.
The dangers of neuroqueering: a brief discussion around potential implications.
Bureaucracy: the challenges it presents in academic settings.
Clear visuals
To keep the visuals clear and easy to follow, I used a simple color palette and avoided depicting anyone in the room. Instead, I represented ideas and themes through symbolic figures, ensuring the illustration felt universal rather than specific.
Engaging remote participants
One of the highlights was how the illustration helped include remote participants. At the end of the event, they could see the visual summary and feel part of the conversation! Even though they were dialled in, their contributions were still included.
The results
The organiser shared that the visual summary became an integral part of the dialogue, opening up new ways to reflect on what was shared.
For me, this project was a reminder of how powerful live illustration can be. It’s not just about capturing ideas; it’s about creating a shared experience that sticks with people after the event ends!
If you’re planning an event or looking to add a fresh, engaging element to your next project, I’d love to help - get in touch!
