Somatic–Performative Research: Artistic practices, pedagogical processes, methodological principles

Abstract

Somatic–performative research (SPR) is a mode of Artistic Practice as Research I have been developing in the past fifteen years. Major influences of SPR have been Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analysis, Authentic Movement, dance theatre and performance. Performativity in a somatic perspective is a constant state of change, between pulsing and resting, innovation and balance, in a process of merging, differentiating and growing. In SPR, the research subject and its enquiries are alive and pulsing in contrasting forces. We merge into them to move with and be moved by them, in dynamic relationship with an inter-artistic creative environment. The association of somatic and performative research implies specific pedagogical choices, strategies and activities. As part of an academic moving field, the SPR encompasses the integration of inner attunement and coherence with artistic exploration, sensorial merger and critical analysis, creativity and social relevance.