Ray Whitcher (22.03.1986) studied Multimedia Design as an undergraduate, then specialised in Animation at a Master’s level. He is currently completing his Ph.D. in Located Comic Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa. Ray is employed as a lecturer in Video Game Production, specializing in Animation, Concept Art and Critical Theory at Uppsala University’s Game Design Department, based in Visby, Gotland.
Professionally, Ray has illustrated comics for ‘Star Wars: Clone Wars Confidential’ and ‘That Bulletproof Kid’, as well as his own titles, ‘Wanton’ and ‘Spoek’ and made animated music videos in collaboration with Toon53 for Marshmello, YungBlud, Black Bear and Corey Taylor.
Presentation: From South Africa, to Scandinavia: Lessons of Decolonization
In an effort to shift the endemic cultural infraction that was endured by many African nations during the Colonial era, several institutions from across the continent have initiated the Decolonization mandate in an effort to begin correcting the centuries-old damage. Beginning with education, curricula changes have been the instigating measures, questioning the long-established methods of pedagogical discourse, knowledge gatekeeping and removing privileged access to specific forms of material and teaching methodologies. The Arts in particular have sought to change the iconic models of expression, knowing that means of making (like materials, software, etc.) are simply that – forms of output – that can be used to reframe Afro-centric narratives, putting its people and stories at the forefront. This presentation will show potential pedagogic shifts in the facilitation of teaching animation, as well as industry best practice that can be applied across spectrum.
