Artistic Methodologies in Forced Migration: Using Body Mapping and Augmented Reality in Syrian Refugees’ Narratives

Abstract

Millions of refugees fleeing war and persecution in Syria have received significant attention in both the public sphere and academic research. This article examines body mapping and augmented reality (AR) as artistic methodological tools that allow refugees to articulate their experiences of forced migration. Body mapping enables the creation of life-sized images which trace the contours of the individual’s body on canvas allowing refugees to express their emotions creatively through their own participation. AR adds another layer to the body map as it animates the artwork and brings it to life. Through body mapping and AR, refugee women from Syria are able to co-create research outcomes and counter gender-biased narratives of vulnerability and victimhood often associated with female Muslim refugees. This project critically engages with the use of art as a sensorialized medium to generate knowledge and examines the impact it shows on viewers during exhibitions. Based on research conducted in the United Kingdom, Germany and Jordan since 2017, this article discusses the use of these new technologies as novel research methodologies in refugee and migration studies.