workshop
22/11/2023
University of Edinburgh
The workshop "What Cannot Be Seen?“ is set up to be a conversation among data visualisation practitioners to inspire a critical perspective on data visualisations, considering them not only as mere technical or representational exercises but also as cultural techniques. We’ll delve into the intricate tapestry of data representation, uncovering inherent limitations and their far-reaching individual and societal implications – to look at the complex assemblages behind the data images.
Spanning three phases, the workshop commences with input presentations, spanning diverse philosophical perspectives on data and its visual portrayal. This knowledge sets the stage for the second phase, where participants dissect existing visualisations – personal or inspirational – dissecting strengths, limitations, and kindling enriching discussions. The final phase widens the vista to encompass societal dimensions. Addressing visualisation challenges evolves into an exploration of their profound societal impact, fostering strategies to transcend limitations. The workshop seamlessly weaves theory and practice, nurturing a discerning approach. It empowers participants to adeptly navigate the cultural and societal nuances entwined with data visualisation.
The workshop bridges the theory-practice gap in visualisation design, offering an alternative data visualisation vocabulary. By examining limitations and consequences, we encourage holistic thinking beyond technical aspects. We’ll embrace cultural and societal dimensions to provoke a more self-reflective visualisation practice. Equipped with a critical lens, participants emerge as conscious, informed practitioners, enriching the broader data visualisation discourse.