This practice-led thesis explores the process of visual notation as a means of developing
narratives within the field of authorial illustration. It examines aspects of the notebook,
in particular its spatial and temporal properties, and the ‘lived time’ of the author. The
thesis considers the utilisation of both words and images in the notational process and,
specifically, the use of marginal space within the notebook. As such it seeks to provide
a greater understanding of the process.

Through the production of a digital portfolio the thesis reflects on how these qualities
can be extended into screenbased artworks. It attempts to mirror the key charactistics
identified in the process of notation with the spatial and temporal properties of the
computer screen. In so doing it compares the lived time experience of the author with
the temporal experience of the viewer.

Underpinning the thesis is a methodology which places emphasis on the keeping of
research journals which provide a comprehensive record of the project’s inquiry. This
methodology draws on existing approaches to reflective practice and is developed by
‘learning’ from the authorial illustrator’s process of notation.

Through its methodology and analysis the thesis seeks to contribute to the debate on
the need for greater poetic inquiry within arts-based academic research, specifically in
relation to the visual poetic as may be found in the author-illustrator’s notebook.