The individual I identified in order to advance my line of enquiry is called Dr. Professor Mieder. Mieder is one of the most renowned scholars in the field of proverbs and folklore studies. He holds a prominent position in the academic world due to his extensive research, publications, and contributions to the understanding of proverbs and their cultural significance. His importance for my investigation of proverbs lies in several key aspects:

1. Expertise in Proverbs: Mieder is a leading expert in the study of proverbs (also referred to as ‘paremiology’). His insights can guide me in navigating the complex world of proverbs and their various cultural and linguistic dimensions. 
2. Interdisciplinary Approach: Dr. Prof. Mieder’s approach to proverb studies is highly interdisciplinary. As I intend to investigate the translational relationship between proverbs and iconographic forms of communication, his multidisciplinary perspective can be immensely beneficial. He has explored the connections between proverbs and fields such as linguistics, literature, art, and more.
3. Research Network: Dr. Prof. Mieder’s extensive network and collaborations in the academic community can offer me valuable connections and resources for my research. He can potentially introduce me to experts and scholars who specialize in the areas relevant to my investigation.
4. Published Work: Dr. Prof. Mieder has authored numerous books and articles on proverbs, making his research readily available for reference and citation in my work.

In the interview with Wolfgang Mieder on the 19th of September, I got the chance to discuss my interest in his research about proverbs. During our conversation, I mentioned my research and practice in the field, including investigating the painting of Pieter Bruegel, Hieronymus Bosch and Goya. I also talked about the interdisciplinary nature of proverb studies and Graphic Communication Design and how it allows for exploration in various directions.

As a Graphic Communication Design student, I sought Mieder’s advice not only in terms of research but also about the possibility of incorporating proverbs into my creative work, for example, in the form of illustrations or a graphic piece. Hearing about his passion for paremiology and how it started was exciting. We discussed the potential of proverbs in children’s books, their role in language education, and the opportunities to create original artworks inspired by popular sayings. Mieder mentioned an extensive catalogue of iconographic pieces (mainly cartoons but also sketches, paintings, etc.) related to proverbial expressions he has collected over the past years and could make available to me.

Given my intention to explore the translational relationship between proverbs and iconographic communication, he kindly offered to send me a copy of one of his books. The book is called ‘Proverb Iconography. An International Bibliography‘ written by Wolfgang Mieder and Janet Sobieski (1999). I hope it will be insightful for my research and serve as a base of inspiration for my studio practice. 

Overall, the conversation helped me see the rich and diverse possibilities of incorporating proverbs into my creative projects and research, emphasizing the depth and complexity of proverbs despite their apparent simplicity. The dialogue helped me frame my enquiry by wanting to dive deeper into the iconographic representation of proverbs. Additionally, our exchange motivated me to continue on this proverbial path, and it eased me to hear that he generously offered his advice for my master’s thesis. Filled with gratitude for his guidance, I am motivated to continue my exploration of proverbs in my work.

Mieder, W., & Sobieski, J. (1999). Proverb Iconography: An International Bibliography.