MEDIA INFORMATION

 
 
 
COLLECTION NAME:
Graduate Thesis Collection
Record
Title:
Drafting Self-Identity: Transracial Adoption in Comics
Creator:
Myer, Sarah Ellen Ok Kil
Subject:
Thesis (M.F.A.) -- Sequential Art
Subject:
Savannah College of Art and Design -- Department of Sequential Art
Rights:
Copyright is retained by the authors or artists of items in this collection, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.
Abstract:
"This thesis analyzes portrayals of transracial adoptees in comics and seeks to determine if those portrayals are adequate in the handling of conflicts faced by transracial adoptees in the United States regarding their racial, cultural and personal identity. Analyzing Superman, Loki and Astro Boy as portrayals of transracial adoptees reveals a lack of in-depth discussion present about the identity issues involved. How do comics featuring fictional transracial adoptees explore the identity and self-image of those characters? What are the benefits of using autobiographical comics to discuss those issues? The visual language of comics provides a diverse outlet for exploration of self-image and identity by changing the way the reader perceives reality. The semi-autobiographical work 'American Born Chinese' by Gene Luen Yang demonstrates a cathartic marriage of psychological concept of the 'self' and engaging the viewer through creative visual elements to express racial identity. Using key visual language elements informed by psychological studies in autobiographical storytelling to express inner identity conflict can open a discussion for transracial adoptees who have struggled with similar issues in their own lives."
Abstract:
Keywords: racial identity, adoption, ethnicity, transracial, transnational discrimination, self-identity, rejection, adoptees, minorities
Publisher:
Savannah, Georgia : Savannah College of Art and Design
Date:
2016-03
Format:
PDF: 78 pages, color and black-and-white illustrations

Drafting Self-Identity: Transracial Adoption in Comics