VizUM 2024 Recap

By Michela Effendie

Read this story also in https://openvisualizationacademy.org/events/vizum-2024-recap/

_{To learn more about the Open Visualization Academy, visit https://openvisualizationacademy.org}

The 2024 VizUM held on November 11, 2024 at the Newman Alumni Center, University of Miami was an inspiring and thought-provoking gathering, bringing together some of the most innovative minds in data visualization. We were thrilled to see a dynamic exchange of ideas that challenged traditional perspectives and encouraged new ways of thinking about data. Each speaker contributed uniquely to this conversation and offered fresh insights that left a lasting impact on attendees.

Santiago Ortiz: “Intelligence Everywhere”

Santiago Ortiz set the stage with a fascinating exploration of intelligence beyond the confines of human cognition and artificial algorithms. He proposed that intelligence exists at every level, from biological cells to entire urban systems. His talk reinforced the idea that data visualization can be a collaborative experience, integrating human, algorithmic, and even ecological perspectives. He encouraged the attendees to consider how our own data projects could better align with these interconnected intelligences to create a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Rahul Bhargava: “Fight the Bar Chart”

Rahul Bhargava’s presentation was a call to rethink conventional data representation. He challenged attendees to move beyond standard visualizations and embrace more interactive, community-driven approaches like data murals and data theater. By advocating for more tactile and engaging methods, he reminded us of the power of storytelling in making data more accessible and impactful. His message is a call to explore more immersive ways to present information that go beyond static charts and screens.

Lauren F. Klein: “The Line Graph and the Slave Ship”

Lauren F. Klein brought a crucial ethical perspective to the discussion, illustrating how data visualization has historically been used in both oppressive and liberating ways. By examining early data representations in British trade and antislavery movements, she underscored the responsibility that comes with visualizing data. Her talk challenged attendees to be more conscientious about the narratives we create and the ethical implications of our choices. Her emphasis on the historical and moral dimensions of data visualization serves as a vital reminder that our work is not just about accuracy, but also about justice and respect for the communities represented in the data.

Each of these thought-provoking talks reinforced our commitment to making VizUM a space for meaningful dialogue and innovation. We are grateful to our speakers and attendees for contributing to an event that continues to push the boundaries of what data visualization can be—creative, ethical, and deeply human. We look forward to building on these ideas in future events and fostering a community that sees data as more than just numbers, but as a tool for understanding, storytelling, and change.