Featured Illustration Research: Exploring the Role of Non-traditional Research Outcomes and Exhibition View Digital Media

Focused Discussion
Ari Chand,  Chloe Killen,  Alan Male,  Mario Minichiello,  Andrew Howells  

Illustration is a robust and established academic discipline globally. It engages a multiplicity of disciplinary subject matter and is investigated in-depth by practice-based research, design studies, and cultural production. Illustration operates across a diverse range of our engagement with everyday life and experience. This focused discussion seeks to investigate the burgeoning role of Illustration outcomes, drawing and documentation as NTRO’s (Non-Traditional Research Outcomes) within the Academy. With NTRO’s now recognised within universities, clarity around how illustration as a field of research meets requirements and institutes the academic rigour of non-traditional approaches. This discussion seeks to outline and highlight the important role of exhibition in establishing peer-review and activation of non-traditional research language, research statements and approaches. A growing international community seeks to solidify these diverse approaches to research and the employment of Illustration as both input and output to diverse and interdisciplinary projects.