Joi Wenjin yao’s thesis investigates narrative devices that approach “nonsense” (as the word is used in the Japanese “Ero Guro Nansensu” movement) in comic storytelling. Her comics create a mystical atmosphere by using non-sequitur, intertextual references, appropriation, and symbolism. Therefore, her work resembles an incomplete puzzle, coded with symbols and metaphors, which requires the audience to engage and fill in the blanks in order to make sense out of “nonsense.” The topics she explores with her comics are mundanity, identity formation, and the isolation of people. Joi’s thesis project includes a sixteen-page comic and several single-page comics in which she demonstrates this approach to “nonsense.” The longer comic depicts a disorienting journey of self-discovery in a post-apocalyptic setting. She expects the readers, who are willing to go on this journey with her, to experience a strong emotional disturbance at the end. Be sure to join us on Friday, May 17th from 6pm-9pm at the MFA Graduate Studios to enjoy Joi's thesis work, along with the other 2019 graduates! MFA Thesis Exhibition and Reception For more information: visit Joi Wenjin Yao online. Artist portrait by Grace Olson Categories All Student Profile Thesis