On 'Peri-peace' Photography: The Nexus Between Images and Empathy

Abstract

Photographic images have power. They can enflame, elicit, evoke and enthuse. While photographs of war and violence inundate society, images of peace are not as easily recognizable. This research project engages the medium of photography to navigate the field of peace and conflict resolution and illuminate creative aspects not widely utilized, so that concepts like empathy and compassion are not just prosocial behaviors but are seen as tangible stepping stones on the path to peace. Additionally, this study amplifies the language surrounding peace to include the concept of ‘peri-peace’ (2019), which I coined to elucidate the mercurial space between negative and positive peace. It also expands analysis to include the innovative practice of ‘peri-peace’ photography, which I developed to allow scholars and practitioners to recognize images of peace and enhance fragmented relationships. The aim is to synthesize various photographic approaches, via a qualitative and interpretative case study, and demonstrate that visual analyses can provide a more nuanced lens through which to ‘see’ peace and conflict, encourage empathy amongst adversaries and propel parties towards resolution and reconciliation.