|
Updates from The International Visual Literacy Association
|
|
|
IVLA 2026 Charleston
Call for Proposals Extended
EXTENDED DEADLINE: April 15, 2026
The International Visual Literacy Association is delighted to announce that our 2026 conference will take place in Charleston, South Carolina, a city where art, history, and storytelling are woven into its people and landscape. The dates of the conference are October 6-9, 2026.
Charleston’s vibrant visual culture is unmistakable, from its preserved historic architecture and coastal light to the rhythms of Gullah Geechee traditions that continue to shape the region’s art, music, and community life. The city’s creative heartbeat is felt year-round through its many artistic celebrations, including the world-renowned Piccolo Spoleto Festival, and Moja Arts Festival, both held annually since 1979, and countless local gallery exhibitions and Wine + Art Walks that invite residents and visitors alike to experience creativity up close.
Our official Call for Proposals has been extended to April 15.
|
|
|
Reflections on IVLA's First Virtual Symposium
Katie Greer, Vice President
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 saw our first annual IVLA Virtual Symposium take place! We designed the symposium to allow for participation in the scholarly conversation about visual literacy for our international members and others who may find it more difficult to join us in person. As such, we intentionally went “theme-free” for the event, with the purpose being simply to highlight and enjoy the current visual literacy research happening around the world. It’s also nice to have an event that bridges the time between in-person conferences.
As the organizer, I might be biased, but I think it was spectacular. I wish I could have attended all of the sessions, but those I was able to join were so interesting and bridged so many disciplines, specialties, and interests. Across the program, presenters from around the world explored topics ranging from generative AI and digital media to visual storytelling, historical imagery, science communication, design practice, and the evolving role of visual rhetoric in contemporary culture. The range of work presented throughout the day really reflected the depth and diversity of visual literacy scholarship today.
I encourage everyone to continue to engage by reviewing the materials posted by our presenters on the Sched session schedule site—I know I will be! These materials offer a great opportunity to revisit sessions or explore presentations you may have missed during the day.
Perhaps most enjoyable for me was seeing the IVLA members (and some new faces!) that I have enjoyed spending time with as part of this organization, and learning more about what they are all up to. I’m thrilled to have been able to provide an opportunity for emerging scholars to present their work and be embraced by our community, and I look forward to future virtual symposiums!
|
|
|
Interested in Shaping IVLA's New Website?
IVLA is beginning the process of building a new website, and we’re inviting members who would like to be part of a working group to help guide its development. Whether you bring ideas, technical experience, design insight, or thoughtful feedback on our current web applications, your perspective is welcome. This is an opportunity to contribute to how IVLA presents its work, supports its members, and engages the broader visual literacy community. If you’re interested in participating, we’d love to hear from you.
|
|
|
|
|
Start or Renew your IVLA Membership
Join IVLA today and become part of a global community dedicated to advancing visual literacy.
As a member, you'll connect with like-minded professionals, gain exclusive access to resources and networking opportunities, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of visual literacy.
Explore the benefits of IVLA membership and take your passion for visual communication to the next level!
|
|
|
|
