Graffiti in Kathmandu Valley: Multimodal discourse analysis

Abstract

This study entitled “Graffiti in Kathmandu Valley: Multimodal Discourse Analysis” was carried out to identify the multimodal features included in graffiti arts and to explore the contents of writing in graffities. Furthermore, this study examined the meaning communicated via images included in the graffities. The study adopted qualitative research design, which was based on Kress and Leeuwon (1996) multimodal discourse analysis. Fifty graffities from different locations of Kathmandu valley were selected for analysis of the data. The data were analyzed based on MDA analytical framework. To accomplish the objectives, I used only publicly appeared graffiti wall arts. The results of the study revealed that multiple features such as presentation of various themes, multiple modes like signs, symbols, colors, words with images, stylish writing structures and linguistic features were noticed in graffiti writing of Kathmandu valley. It was also found that multiple issues were raised in the graffiti, which included politics, gender discrimination, women violence and languages. This study has been divided into five main section. The first chapter deals with introduction of the study, which consists of background of the study, statement of the problem, objectives of the study, Research questions, significance of the study, delimitations of the study, and operational definitions of key terms. The second chapter includes the review of theoretical literature, empirical literature, implications of the study and conceptual framework. The third chapter discusses the method and procedures of the study. It consists of design, method, and procedures of the study. It consists of design and methods of sample and sampling strategy, sources of data, data collection tools and techniques, data collection procedures, data analysis and interpretation procedures and ethical considerations. The Fourth chapter incorporates the analysis and interpretation of data and the fifth chapter deals with findings, conclusions and recommendations related to policy, practice and further research. References and appendices were included at the last part of the study.