Visual Vernacular (VV) and Performance in Deaf Art

What is Visual Vernacular (VV)?

Visual Vernacular, or VV, is a unique form of performance art created by and for the Deaf community. It combines sign language, mime, facial expressions, and body movements to tell stories in a completely visual way. This art form does not rely on spoken words or written text; instead, it uses the body and space to create vivid, cinematic storytelling. VV was developed in the 1960s by Bernard Bragg, a Deaf American artist inspired by mime techniques from Marcel Marceau.

How Does VV Work?

VV performances use strong physical movements, gestures, and facial expressions to represent characters, objects, and settings. Performers often “shift roles,” meaning they switch between characters or objects seamlessly during the performance. For example:

A performer might act as a bird flying through the sky and then transform into a tree swaying in the wind.
Techniques like slow motion or fast motion are used to create dramatic effects, similar to a movie scene.

VV also incorporates iconic signs (visual representations of objects or actions) that make it easy for audiences to understand, even if they do not know sign language.

Why Is VV Important in Deaf Culture?

VV is more than just entertainment; it is a celebration of Deaf culture and identity. It allows Deaf performers to express their creativity and share their stories with both Deaf and hearing audiences. Unlike traditional hearing theatre or poetry, which often depend on sound or spoken language, VV is fully visual. This makes it accessible to everyone while highlighting the strengths of visual communication.

Examples of VV in Performance

VV is used in many forms of art, including:

Theatre: Deaf actors use VV to bring plays to life without spoken dialogue.
Poetry: Performers create “visual poems” using gestures and expressions.
Storytelling: Complex narratives are told through movement alone.

For instance, performers like Eyk Kauly and Donna Williams have used VV to translate music and stories into visual art. Their work demonstrates how VV can turn abstract ideas into something tangible and beautiful.

How Does VV Enhance Performance?

VV brings a unique layer of creativity to performances:

It uses “cinematic” techniques like zooming in (small gestures) or panoramic views (large movements).
It captures emotions and actions visually, making it engaging for audiences of all backgrounds.
It transforms everyday stories into dynamic visual experiences.

In Summary

Visual Vernacular is a powerful art form that showcases the beauty of Deaf culture. It uses movement, expression, and imagination to tell stories that everyone can enjoy. By focusing on visual communication, VV celebrates the strengths of the Deaf community while creating performances that are inclusive and inspiring.