BA, MA, Grad Dip Comm Prac, Grad Cert CELTA

H2O Narratives

(PhD Candidate, 2009-2012)

Abstract

This study investigates hybrid photography, a merger between art and fact, creativity and ecology, as a medium for portraying animal perspectives within an environmental framework. Hybrid theory (the merger of fact and fiction), indexical photographic theory and digital evolution provide the contextual framework for this study’s creative practice genre. Hybrid theory resolves the paradox central to arguments about the current status of photographic realism by advocating the merger of authenticity and artistry. Ecocentric theory, in particular, animal centric, environmental philosophy, guides this study’s creative content and focus. The ecocriticism movement further rationalises the merger of environmental issues with creative practice. This study proposes to examine the theory and processes of hybrid photography’s capacity for creating engaging ecological discourse.

Design theory and Grounded theory, qualitative research methodologies, provide this project’s research framework by systematically treating hybrid photographic practice as datum for comparative, critical and reflexive analysis. The development of creative works, which render and explore hybrid photography’s potential, and continuing comparative analyses, will offer insights into a tested definition and critique of hybrid photography in the representation of animal perspectives. These insights will be crucial in the development of hybrid photography as an emerging creative genre and in the development of new theory.

Biography

Bridgette McKelvey is an award-winning photographer and multimedia practitioner whose portfolio includes multimedia installations and workshops for Brisbane City Council, children’s books for Sea World, photography for Redland City and Noosa Councils, and State Library Queensland digital story making.

Supervisors

Dr Victoria Garnons-Williams (Principle)

Prof Kerry Mallan (Associate)

Publications

http://eprints.qut.edu.au/view/person/McKelvey,_Bridgette.html