Pat Skelly's midterm (for the time being)

Title: Tracing the origins of graphic literature in Japan and the US

Abstract: Rather than focusing on the current states of animated literature in both Japan and the US, I will attempt to explore the origins of each cultures graphic background, contrasting the similarities and differences in not only the animated methods and styles, but the cultural influences as well.

Drawing from this point, I will also examine (albeit to a nominal extent, or at least as much as pertains to the question/topic/relevance at hand) the influences that underwent the origins of the graphic literature. From Egyptian hieroglyphics to Near-East cylinder seals to cave drawings (?), similarities and differences will be raised to help discern the possible origins.

There will also be a focus on the more contemporary aspects of each – in what format they are in (manga, comic, anime, cartoon), how they are read (serialized strip, short comic, manga, graphic novel, TV/film), audience, and others.

For an audience, I hope to aim this project at a more scholarly group this time, as opposed to the layman. Through this, hoping that the readers have some familiarity with the material at hand, it will be easier to get right into the core analysis of the topic, without having to dumb things down enough so that everyone and anyone can understand. However, this is subject to change depending on how deep into the origins I wish to delve.

Methodology: This should be a relatively simple, straight-forward presentation (at first) of each culture’s origins for their graphic literature and mediums. From this, the project can start with some of the earliest graphic mediums known (hieroglyphics, per se/for example), then move onto each culture’s actual beginnings. In effect, the first part of the project will be a timeline (possibly modeled after the digital wall in the IML).

However, after the timeline, some of the more interesting, interactive features will take place. At this point, the project will show how, if at all, the media relate to each other in the following, but not limited to, categories: artistic style, origin, influence/cultural significance, use of multiple media (only art, mostly art, mostly text, etc.), and layout.

I also hope to examine the current state of each medium as it is seen in each medium’s respective country, as well as on a global scale. Examining how these original multimedia presentations use current media to expand their message and use would add insight not only into their current plight, but possibly the future of graphic literature as well (will the mediums lose the page in exchange for the webpage?).

Media presentation and justification: Hands-down one of the most obvious tools to use will be Flash, as that will allow the viewers/audience to interact best with the project, as well, it is also the most fit way to present the information. Not to mention that a timeline would work best in Flash, as it could act like an interactive movie, if needed.

However, Sophie would also be an apt way to present the information if only because it’s a blend of Flash, Powerpoint, and the like.

Other notes: Since this topic has already gone through two changes, I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if it goes through at least another one, not only to reflect the new information I come across, but to appease my own ever-changing viewpoints.