World Archaeology

Visualizing Narratives

Visualisations are widely used, and arguably essential, to communicating archaeological interpretations of the human past. This edition, complementing the recent call on Shape in Archaeology, aims to explore the conceptual and methodological frameworks underpinning the visualization of archaeological data, emphasising the transformation from our empirical data to representations of our interpretations and narratives about the past. We encourage submissions that explore different types of representation, including but not limited to, encompassing traditional illustrative practices, visualization of statistical models, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), digital 3D reconstruction, agent-based modelling, augmented reality, archaeological imaginaries, generative AI, gamification and the role of visual communication in museum exhibitions and heritage displays.

Archaeology is a visually rich field with imagery often used to communicate complex ideas and interpretive schema. The use of visualizations in archaeological reconstructions has held a vital but often contested role. With the adoption of digital technologies, the field’s relationship with the creation and use of visualization as an interpretative tool has developed quickly. The integration of archaeological evidence into reconstructions (digital or artistic) to aid the creation or communication of archaeological narratives has become more sophisticated but not necessarily more scientifically robust.

We seek papers that reflect on the communication of complex datasets into accessible and engaging visual narrative. We welcome contributions that provide reflections on specific visualization techniques and the impact of visual representation on perception and understanding. Authors are encouraged to consider the relationship between data, interpretation and the theoretical and ethical implications of their methodologies, as well as to reflect on the reception of their models by their audiences. Authors could also consider how we come to question or enhance previously held models with new approaches or increased datasets. We seek contributions across all time periods and from all around the globe.