Charlie Wilson
Contact
- Email: k2240905@kingston.ac.uk
- Location: Kingston School of Art, Knights Park
- Faculty: Kingston School of Art
- School: School of Arts
- Department: Department of Film and Photography
- Personal website
Research project: Reclaiming the autistic voice in modern film and television; fandom, self-advocacy and influencing the industry. A study into the importance of ‘good' representation.
Abstract
This research project focuses on the presentation of autistic people in TV and Film over the last 10 years. It will explore the perception of those with autism and how those stigmas may have influence over the treatment and understanding of that community. It also has a large focus on the impact and importance of 'fandom' and the self insertion of representation in pre-existing canon. The research will culminate in a series of workshops and projects where I will work alongside the interviewees and other disabled filmmakers and creatives from all areas. There will be a large use of photography in order to demonstrate the current advocacy and the power of 'fandom' and community. The work produced will provide an example to the media industry, of what is possible when disabled people are included in the conversation about their own representation.
- Research degree: Practice-based PhD
- Title of project: Reclaiming the autistic voice in modern film and television; fandom, self-advocacy and influencing the industry. A study into the importance of ‘good' representation.
- Research supervisor: Dr Colette Balmain
- Other research supervisor: Dr María Mencía
Biography
I am a PhD student at Kingston University with a particular interest in disability advocacy and media analysis. I am passionate journalist, filmmaker, writer and aspiring academic with a particular interest in disability advocacy and media analysis.
I originally come from a drama and music background, which inspired me to work in the creative industries. I completed my BA in Film and Screenwriting at the University of Chichester in 2021 and finished my MA in Journalism at the University of Roehampton in September 2022. I have recently joined Kingston University and hope to complete my PhD in modern media and disability.
Areas of research interest
- Disability Representation in Film and TV
- Disability Rights Movement
- Presentations of Neurodivergence
- Disability Stigma
- LGBTQ+ UK History
- Connections of Disability and Queerness
- TV and Film's Impact on Social Attitudes
- The Responsibility of Modern Media in Creating an Accessible World
Qualifications
- BA Digital Film Production and Screenwriting, University of Chichester
- MA Journalism, University of Roehampton