“Mix, Mould, Fire!”: Comic Art and Educational Outreach Inspired by Archaeology

Abstract

Comics, as multimodal texts, are valuable tools for developing comprehensive, holistic pedagogies benefitting different learning styles. Lessons built on the observation, interpretation, and creation of comics encourage student engagement, participation, and creativity. Interactive lessons hone fine motor skills, facilitate personal connection to the topic, and expand abilities in key educational areas. This chapter explores how comics, presented in familiar and accessible formats, are particularly useful in teaching archaeology. The authors reveal the artistic choices behind the creation of Abby the Apprentice in “Mix, Mould, Fire!”, an original comic about pottery manufacturing and trade in the Early Bronze Age, which draws on recent archaeological excavations in western Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). This comic was incorporated into outreach activities, for students in preschool through sixth grade (ages 3–12), inspiring playful engagement with archaeology while also initiating deep learning and building competency in literacy, technology, and communication.