The Living Inquiry of the Food Mapping Method: Weaving Together Arts-Based Research and Psychogeography

• In Event: 66.080 - Roundtable Session 26
  In Roundtable Session: 66.080-11 - Mapping Arts-Based Educational Research Across Contexts

Abstract

This paper discusses an arts-based activity called Food Mapping (FM) that takes participants on a psychogeographic drift through local food sources by drawing upon community map-making and participatory action research. FM encourages critical questioning of food production, service and consumption, and relates these structures to the health epidemics, economic problems, and ecological impacts associated with our modern food systems. Specifically, this paper details the development of the arts-based map-making component and connections to psychogeography. Through these experiences, participants gained more agency and created richer pictures of their drifts, contributing to a more dynamic FM activity. We conclude by calling for more connections between arts-based researchers and the food justice movement.

Authors

• Peggy Shannon-Baker, Georgia Southern University

• Alan Wight, University of Cincinnati