The talk builds on a common reading of data- and information visualisation as graphic representation of complex data and contextualised knowledge. Visualisations are consequently conceived quite literally as “images” and in this respect related to scientific methods in visual studies and art history where images are treated as visual sources that need to be interpreted or act as visual arguments in scholarly discourses. In this context, the talk illustrates how visualisation research and the humanities could profit from a reciprocal methodological exchange. It emphasises the need to foster critical approaches to visualisation on two levels: first of all, the critical interpretation of visualisations in the context of source criticism and visualisation literacy. Second of all, in terms of the actual creation of visualisations and exploratory interfaces that specifically act as a means to challenge conventions, encourage refection, and support critical intervention.
Lecture Slides will appear here soon.