Paper short abstract:

Based on the photographic and video outputs of participatory visual research on climate change with members of two different Kenyan Maasai communities, I discuss the interconnected dimensions of coproduction of knowledge, empowerment and aesthetics in participatory visual research methods.

Paper long abstract:

With digital technologies increasingly available, Participatory Action Research methods, such as participatory photography and video, have become popular among ethnographers. Giving cameras (and control over the research) to participants from marginalized groups, both approaches produce rich visual and narrative data that are guided by local knowledge, concerns and priorities. They also facilitate community self-awareness, empowerment, communication with policymakers and positive social change.

In parallel, climate change science has recognized the need for ethnographic research that illuminates how climatic impacts are locally coped with. There have been calls for the coproduction of knowledge thereof by local communities and scientists; and for research initiatives empowering local groups to share their experience of global environmental changes.

Kenyan pastoralists were trained in photography and video production in two projects investigating climate change. Basing this presentation on their work, I will discuss how climatic changes are coped with and reflected upon by two Maasai communities. In 2009, Amboseli Maasai photographers portrayed the interconnected survival strategies of people, livestock and wildlife during the worst drought in living memory (2008-09). In 2011, Maasai Mara pastoralists collaboratively created a documentary presenting their concerns about and solutions to environmental and socioeconomic changes. The Maasai photographers and filmmakers vividly depict the challenges of natural-resource dependent communities at the climate change frontline, while contributing scientific data as researchers. I demonstrate how the participatory processes have sparked local critical reflection on pastoralism's future and led to community organization. However, I will also show that the Kenyan visual researchers did not sacrifice aesthetics and artistry.