This text is part of a research journal that tracks my doctoral research. My journal follows a type of positional reflexivity recommended by Neumann & Neumann. The process is chronological, starting with an autobiographical position statement, which is shared here. This is acccompanied by reflexive journalling, which I pursued via writing, drawings, performances, and photography.

This initial autobiographical statement is the starting point. From here my research journal records the ways my visual storytelling practice changes to encompass a range of overlapping identities of advantage and disadvantage. Over the course of this journal my identities and perspective slide and shift.

There is another part of this research which is about working with other people. But this is the first part. The part where I acknowledge who I am and share that with you. My hope is that by being honest about myself, we can start a conversation about our similarities and differences. And I can perhaps help you to share some of your stories. The ones that stick in your throat and tug on your heart strings. The ones that matter to you.