Oliver Carlisle, an anthropology major with minors in women and gender studies and film, is preparing to graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in December 2024. Throughout their time at UAB, Carlisle embraced opportunities to combine multiple disciplines and turn that interdisciplinary learning into real, tangible outcomes.
“I have come to love and appreciate how my areas of study overlap and intertwine,” said Carlisle. “The anthropology department and film program have provided me with an amazing sense of community that I have never experienced before.”
When they arrived at UAB, Carlisle did not declare a major. Then, they took “Introduction to Cultural Anthropology,” which inspired them to pursue anthropology with a focus on cultural perceptions of gender, neurodivergences, and the ways culture is represented through media and film. According to Jordan Kiper, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Anthropology, Carlisle’s work embodies the interdisciplinary opportunities that exist within the College of Arts and Sciences.
“Oliver’s studies reflect the success of blending anthropology’s critical perspectives with the power of film, and this blend has engendered remarkable projects,” said Kiper.
Specifically, Carlisle has produced a documentary about the Department of Anthropology, presented original research on autism and gender diversity at the UAB 2023 Fall Expo, and co-produced a film on Studio by the Tracks—a local art studio for artists with autism—which premiered at the McWane Science Center’s IMAX Theatre. The film, titled “The Spectrum of Arts,” was produced through Department of History Assistant Professor Michele Forman’s “Ethnographic Filmmaking” course.
“I cannot express what an amazing experience it was to make this film with my film partner, Jonathan [Purlee], and to get to know these local artists,” said Carlisle. “I will never forget it premiering at the McWane IMAX theatre and our community members coming to see it, as well as my friends and family.”
In addition to their studies and class projects, Carlisle has worked full-time throughout their tenure at UAB. For Kiper, it’s a testament to their ability to manage multiple projects at one time.
“I think it speaks to Oliver’s outstanding time management skills, perseverance, and passion for learning,” said Kiper. “I can also attest that Oliver not only meets academic challenges head-on but also maintains a positive attitude that is inspiring.”
Now, Carlisle is completing their final undergraduate film, “Oscillations,” and preparing to cross the stage at the fall commencement ceremony on December 14. As they prepare for the future, they are reflecting on and celebrating the UAB community that helped uncover their passion for storytelling and filmmaking.
“I have learned so much not just from professors, but also from my friends and peers,” Carlisle said. “During my last semester, I have been tasked with a lot of self-exploration. From reading religious ethnographies to having to deep dive within my own self for a digital storytelling course.”
Carlisle plans to take a gap year after graduation, then they will pursue studies and projects involving anthropology and film. Given their great work as an undergraduate student, it’s likely more impactful films are on the horizon.
