Yumi Piksa – Developing a community-responsive way of filmmaking in Melanesia

Abstract

This article explores the collaborative application of media and arts-based research practices involving students from the University of Goroka (Papua New Guinea) as co-researchers. It critically examines the processes of developing a community-responsive approach to filmmaking in order to challenge preconceived notions of media and research practice in Papua New Guinea. The analysis draws on results from a film workshop run at the University of Goroka over a duration of six weeks through which a team designed a Melanesian approach to filmmaking practice. The research study found that stereotypical perceptions and understandings of Papua New Guinea communities could be challenged by respectful and community-responsive ways of making films involving local community members. It presents filmmaking as creating a meaningful space for exploring community relations and practices. Papua New Guinean co-researchers acted to bridge dialogue between rural communities, media technologies and the national and transnational media sphere.

A Review of the Pacific Media Landscape: A Baseline Study

“…The University of Goroka, through the Centre for Social and Creative Media, has investigated community-responsive ways of filmmaking in Melanesia and collaborative media production. The process of filmmaking as a space for exploring community relations and practices and challenging stereotypical media representation of PNG communities has been an important dimension of this activity (Thomas, 2011; Thomas, Eggins & Papoutsaki, 2013).…”

“…Communication networks and flows are complex, based on decisions and choices on how to use various media platforms, availability and access. Recent research indicates that a wide range of forms and modes of communication play a role in development and social change in the Pacific—including community radio, information and communication technology (ICT) initiatives (Harris, 2013; 2007; Horst, 2013; Watson, 2011) and processes such as community dialogue (Thomas, 2011; Thomas, Eggins & Papoutsaki, 2013) along with traditional mass media. A comparative analysis allows us to better understand the role of media and communication and how journalists can be supported not only within their countries but also across the PI countries.…”

Relational Accountability in Indigenizing Visual Research for Participatory Communication

“…Knowledge must be understood in the context of relationships formed to develop a holistic understanding-relationships with people, ancestors, and the environment. Knowledge of a community could be regarded as collective memory (Thomas, 2011), common experiences that have shaped the community in the past. Being aware of this collective memory and incorporating it in research might help build bridges between the community and researchers.…”