Participatory Methods
The photo-novella is a method of producing knowledge that is accessible for various reasons. First, it takes a literary form, that of illustrated romantic literature, well known and popular until the early 2000s. Second, its content is made intelligible by the way the stories are told. The story is rhythmic and uses a visual style combining images and short texts.
In addition, the method stimulates participants’ creativity through the development of scripts and the artistic process involved in producing them.
It helps make less well-known subjects and marginalized life situations literally visible, based on the way the actors perceive themselves.
Indeed, it is intended that the photo-novella method be interpreted as a collective creation emerging from individual experiences that are then reflected and appropriated by the group.
Participants are the inventors and “owners” of the stories that emerge, which encourages their engagement. Finally, the method is also inclusive, as there are different ways to contribute; you can participate in writing, playing, taking pictures, editing or production activities.
Example of the photo-novella Entre vous et nous and explanatory video:
- Available free of charge on Carrefour Familial des Personnes handicapées.
Texte by Émilie Raymond
