Doctoral student merges art and literacy with GMOA exhibition
While studying at the University of Georgia’s College of Education, doctoral student Rachel Sanders noticed a glaring paradox in the field of new literacy. Although often discussed and recognized, new literacy scholars who emphasize the importance of broadening the term “literacy” beyond just the written word repeatedly present their findings through traditional, written methods.
In response to this contradiction, Sanders presented her doctoral defense in a format solely outside the written word to practice her new literacy skills and enhance the public’s understanding of how people communicate with each other in the age of technology.
“We understand that text is not limited to the written word,” said Sanders. “We can read bodies, we can read clothing—you’re taking away meaning from something that someone has encoded, and now you’re decoding it, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s in the shape of a letter.”
Interweaving art, fashion, and texture, Sanders’ public popup exhibition at the Georgia Museum of Art takes visitors on a visual journey from the constraints of traditional literacies to the diversity and freedom of new literacies.