'Exploring the Lens of Humanity: Practical Applications of a Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Anthropology and Documentary Film'

Visual anthropology and documentary filmmaking offer a unique lens through which to explore human experiences, cultures, and societies. A Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Anthropology and Documentary Film equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to create compelling, ethnographically informed documentaries that shed insight into the complexities of the human condition. In this blog post, we will delve into the practical applications of this course, exploring real-world case studies that demonstrate the impact and relevance of visual anthropology in contemporary documentary filmmaking.

Section 1: Observational Filmmaking and Ethnographic Research

A key aspect of visual anthropology is observational filmmaking, which involves immersing oneself in a particular culture or community to capture authentic, unscripted moments. Students of the Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Anthropology and Documentary Film learn the ethnographic research methods necessary to conduct thorough, respectful fieldwork. A notable example of observational filmmaking is the documentary 'Five Obstructions' (2003) by Jørgen Leth and Lars von Trier. This film explores the concept of cultural identity through a series of re-enactments of a scene from Leth's earlier film 'The Perfect Human' (1967). By employing observational filmmaking techniques, the directors create a nuanced exploration of cultural norms and human behavior.

Section 2: Collaborative Storytelling and Community Engagement

Visual anthropology emphasizes the importance of collaborative storytelling, where filmmakers work closely with their subjects to co-create narratives that accurately represent their experiences. This approach is exemplified in the documentary 'The Act of Killing' (2012) by Joshua Oppenheimer, which explores the 1965 Indonesian massacre through the perspectives of the perpetrators. By engaging with the community and involving them in the storytelling process, Oppenheimer creates a powerful, thought-provoking film that challenges conventional notions of truth and accountability.

Section 3: Sensory Ethnography and Immersive Storytelling

Sensory ethnography, a key aspect of visual anthropology, involves using film to capture the sensory dimensions of human experience. Students of the Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Anthropology and Documentary Film learn to employ sensory ethnography techniques to create immersive, engaging documentaries. The documentary 'Leviathan' (2012) by Lucien Castaing-Taylor and Véréna Paravel is a prime example of sensory ethnography in action. This film explores the lives of commercial fishermen in the North Atlantic, using innovative camera techniques to create a visceral, immersive experience.

Section 4: Applied Visual Anthropology and Social Impact

Visual anthropology is not merely an academic pursuit, but a powerful tool for social change. Students of the Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Anthropology and Documentary Film learn to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems, creating documentaries that inspire, educate, and mobilize audiences. The documentary 'The True Cost' (2015) by Andrew Morgan is a notable example of applied visual anthropology, exploring the environmental and social impact of the fast fashion industry. By using documentary filmmaking as a tool for social commentary, Morgan creates a powerful call to action that challenges viewers to rethink their relationship with fashion.

Conclusion

A Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Anthropology and Documentary Film offers students a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of human experience through the lens of documentary filmmaking. By examining real-world case studies and practical applications, we have seen how visual anthropology can be used to create compelling, ethnographically informed documentaries that inspire, educate, and mobilize audiences. Whether you are a filmmaker, anthropologist, or simply someone passionate about storytelling, this course offers a rich and rewarding learning experience that will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to create impactful, engaging documentaries that shed light on the human condition.