Title: Instagram Manga and Illustrations From the United Arab Emirates
Stream: Visual Culture
Presentation Type: Live-Stream Presentation
Authors:
Sarah Laura Nesti Willard, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
Urwa Mohammed Tariq, United Arab Emirates University, United Arab Emirates
Abstract:
Instagram has become the most popular social media platform for visual expression: many Emirati youths are drawn to the platform because it is one of the most widespread social networks, allowing them to share information, pictures and personal stories. This research study aims to analyze, visually and conceptually, a collection of illustrated posts and comic strips on Instagram, created by a selected group of Emirati artists. The images are visually interpreted and linked with their social context. The research applies a qualitative approach by carrying out personal interviews to identify points of view related to the existing visual material created by these ‘avant-garde’ illustrators. The results show that a new trend of illustration stemming from Japanese anime and manga is emerging among young Emirati artists; their Instagram posts constitute a subtle discourse that often features local traditions and characteristics along with cultural inhibitions. The study also examines how their artwork impacts their societal sphere, along with the challenges they face. Furthermore, insights are provided as to how to grow the illustrators’ practice to reach a wider audience.
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