Exploring AltNarrative in HCI Imagery and Comics

Abstract

It is often assumed that imagery provides an easy or universal mode of communication, but when we imagine our worlds through sketches, visualizations, and comics are we leaving anyone behind? The visual world is rich, it transcends boundaries and connects us... but not all of us. To be able to create an image or visualize something is a skill, but to be able to view and interpret that image is a privilege: how can we bridge the gap between visual and textual interpretation? We propose that alt-narrative could bridge the gap between visual communication and imagery to connect everyone in storytelling, visualization, and thought. This AltCHI paper puts forward exploration of the AltNarrative method in HCI imagery and comics. To engage with this research, the reader should either activate their computer or smart device screen reader or open in Adobe Acrobat in Mac or Windows then activate Read Out loud.