Artistic Practice Research Articles

Embodied and Sensorial Methodologies for Researching Performance: Kinesthetic Empathy

This video article shows some of the embodied methodologies during fieldwork researching the corporeal practices by Catalonian artist Fina Miralles (b.1950). I made use of my own performances, feldenkrais and 5Rythms dance; re-create some performances in the sites that took place, extensive archival work, film during fieldwork, and conversations with the artist and curatorial practices. This research-creation process provides a genuine tool to develop a corporeal methodology focused on kinesthesia and kinesthetic empathy.

Perspectives of Generative AI in the Context of Digital Transformation of Society, Audio-Visual Media and Mass Communication: Instrumentalism, Ethics and Freedom

2022 is called the year of “generative AI,” and the increased interest in ChatGPT in 2023 proves not just a sign of the popularity of neural networks among the mass audience but rather a trend. The number and quality of neural network models are growing, accelerating the digital transformation of society and its subsystems towards a new paradigm – Society 5.0. In this study, the authors analyze the functional potential of generative AI in the fields of social development, mass communication, and audiovisual media and identify several serious ethical challenges and dilemmas directly related to the operationalization of this digital technology. Along with the techno-optimistic concepts of “digital happiness” and “super smart society” and the excitement of fast and efficient operation of technologies using FM and LLM, even the most progressive adherents of Society 5.0 do not deny the existence of a number of risks to society and humans generated by AI, among other things. It goes about the threat of rapid and convincing multiplication of fake news and narratives, excessive dependence, the risk of copyright infringement and related ethical dilemmas, challenges to freedom of creativity, the instrumentalization of intellectual and artistic (including audiovisual) practices, digital manipulation of consciousness, and social exclusion associated with the deformation of the existential foundations of human life and communication.

Odd New Spring: Towards Evolving Landscapes and a Reorientation in Design Practice (2024)

"Odd New Spring: Towards Evolving Landscapes and a Reorientation in Design Practice" is an artistic research PhD project that explores methods for designers to engage with local environments, interdisciplinary communities, and professional fields in new ways. The project repositions unwanted plants, specifically Invasive Alien Plant Species, as a foundation for knowledge creation and new local activities. This approach challenges the perception of these plants as strictly agonistic and reframes them in the context of sustainability, production, and resource management. Through the artistic practice, the plants are connected to stories from the past and visions for the future, encouraging reflection on current classifications and relations. The work culminated in the exhibition "Odd New Spring" at the University Museum in Bergen's Natural History Collections. Here, experimental artefacts, storytelling objects, interdisciplinary dialogues, and reflections point towards a new design position. The project envisions the designer as a bridge-builder across disciplines, fostering sustainable practices and coexistence within local landscapes. Supervised by Mette L'orange (architect MNAL and visual artist) and Tim Parry-Williams (Professor of Art: Textiles, KMD). Photo: Odd New Spring 2024, Siren Elise Wilhelmsen

Challenges and Responsibilities in the UX Design of Text-to-Image AI Models: A Discussion Through a Comparative Heuristics Evaluation

The rapid advancement and adoption of generative AI in creative and professional domains mark a significant evolution in technological interaction, raising pivotal discussions on its integration, usability and broader societal impact. This paper delves into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI, focusing in particular on text-to-image tools and their integration into daily work practices of artists, designers, architects and researchers. As these creators increasingly incorporate AI's inherent unpredictability and ambiguity into their work, a critical examination of the ethical, legislative and environmental implications becomes imperative. We highlight how the User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) aspects of these groundbreaking technologies remain mostly underexplored. UX pioneer Jakob Nielsen has recently warned that professionals in the field must adapt to the fast-paced advancements in AI or become obsolete for an industry that is becoming pivotal in the contemporary creative field. He draws a parallel between the current AI era and the dot-com boom of the 1990s, highlighting how UX professionals were slow to adapt to the Internet, which led to missed opportunities and a lack of user-centred design. Consequently, the usability of generative AI tools is a paramount concern, especially as non-expert users increasingly engage with these systems. This paper explores the usability challenges, specifically the articulation barrier where users struggle to effectively communicate prompts to AI, and the consequent need for more intuitive and accessible interfaces. Through comparative analysis and a heuristic evaluation of four leading models, i.e. Midjourney, Dall.E, Stable Diffusion and Adobe Firefly, which presents a unique case study for comparison due to their divergent UI and UX elements, we aim to provide insights into the current state of AI tools and propose pathways for their responsible and effective use.

Murdered and missing: description, art, and human rights

AbstractThe aim of the article is to explore how describing works of art and artistic practices enables a deeper understanding of the political dimensions and effects of art. Drawing on visual and documentary analysis, the article explores two artworks: Azúcar Rabiosa (‘Rabid Sugar’) (2018) by Cerrucha which addresses the justice system’s inaction regarding femicides and transfemicides in Mexico and Remain (2018) by Hoda Afshar, which documents the experiences of a group of stateless men who were left to languish when the Australian government closed its offshore immigration detention centre. Two key arguments emerge. First, making visible through description different aspects of artistic objects and practices helps account for what these artworks do politically. Second, taking description seriously enables us to understand how these artworks make claims to human rights.

Exploring Cultural Competence in Art Education : A Literature Review on Enhancing Cultural Identity among Students in Taishan College in Shandong Province, China

This literature review explores the relationship between cultural competence in art education and the enhancement of cultural identity among students at Taishan College in Shandong Province, China. In an increasingly globalized world, understanding and integrating diverse cultural perspectives in educational curricula have become paramount. This study synthesizes existing research on cultural competence, art education methodologies, and their implications for fostering cultural identity. The review reveals that art education serves as a powerful medium for encouraging students to engage with their cultural heritage while also appreciating global artistic expressions. Key themes identified include the role of culturally responsive pedagogy, the impact of local traditions on artistic practices, and the significance of student engagement in culturally relevant projects. By highlighting best practices and potential strategies for implementing culturally competent curricula, this review aims to provide insights for educators and policymakers seeking to enhance cultural identity through art education in a Chinese context. The findings suggest that by embracing cultural competence, art education can not only enrich students' educational experiences but also promote a deeper sense of self and community identity among the youth in Shandong Province.

Visual Art Representation and Social Attitudes Towards Transgender Individuals in Pakistan: Exploring Queer Theory, Personal Narratives, and Societal Change

This research paper investigates the intricate interplay between visual art representation, social attitudes, and the experiences of transgender individuals within the Pakistani context. By integrating the frameworks of queer theory, personal narratives, and the recent enactment of the transgender bill, this study aims to contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and supportive society for transgender individuals in Pakistan. The paper begins by providing a comprehensive understanding of key terms such as LGBT, transgender, and gay, clarifying their distinct meanings to avoid misconceptions. It then introduces the theoretical lens of queer theory, which offers critical insights into challenging societal norms and perceptions regarding gender and sexuality. Through an in-depth case study of a college friend who underwent a gender transition and now identifies as a woman, the researcher engages in meaningful dialogue to gain a profound understanding of her personal experiences, challenges, and transformative journey. This exploration sheds light on the emotional disorientation and internal conflicts often encountered when interacting with individuals who have undergone gender transitions, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in fostering meaningful connections. Furthermore, the research delves into the realm of visual art practices among transgender individuals in Pakistan, analyzing the artistic expressions of transgender artists and those who explore transgender themes. By examining the transformative power of visual art to raise awareness, promote empathy, and challenge stereotypes, the study highlights the potential of art as a catalyst for social change and acceptance. In addition, the paper addresses the broader societal implications and attitudes towards transgender individuals in Pakistani society, particularly in the context of the transgender bill. It underscores the urgency for progress in terms of ensuring equal treatment, inclusivity, and acceptance, aiming to dismantle discriminatory practices and foster an environment that embraces diversity. Overall, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on transgender rights and social attitudes in Pakistan. By amplifying personal narratives, employing queer theory as an analytical framework, and recognizing the transformative potential of visual art, this study advocates for the dignified treatment and facilitation of transgender individuals as valued members of society with respect and equality.

Regional Claims Through Exhibitions—The Transnational Circulation of Włocławek “Fajans” in East Central Europe

The article examines the exhibition history of hand-painted ceramic objects from the “Fajans” factory in Włocławek and the politics of regional contextualization during the period of détente in the 1970s and 1980s. It extends both existing scholarship on transnational art history in socialist Europe and the notion of cultural diplomacy, approached here in the context of regional politics and economic frameworks. The paper highlights the peripheral networks and movements that developed in relation to the socialist cultural politics of working-class artistic engagement and artistic practice as labor. Questions of cooperation between Poland and other socialist states are of particular interest, as are the implications of détente for East Central Europe. The reconstruction of the transnational circulation of “Fajans” objects is based on a comparative analysis of international “Fajans” exhibitions, using documentation from the archives of the Faience Department of the Museum of the Kujawy and Dobrzyń Land, as well as from the archives of the city of Novi Sad. Based on the researched material and the conceptual framework of transnational art history, the article proposes a concept of regional cultural diplomacy.

Exploring young children’s self and others: integrating visual diaries and the digital emotional expression application in art education

ABSTRACT This study explores the integration of technology-based and hands-on art practices in an early childhood art education program tailored to preschoolers in South Korea. The participants of this study included 20 young children aged five or six years old, who engaged in the program for a two-year period. By employing qualitative research methods, the results reveal the young learners’ enhanced expression of their emotion, including feelings, desires, and moods with the aid of visual diaries in conjunction with a digital emotional expression application supported by teacher intervention. Further, the young learners were stimulated to engage in self-discovery, self-awareness, and understanding of others. Ultimately, young children’s visual diaries enhanced educators’ and parents’ comprehension of their emotions. Moreover, showcasing these visual diaries and collaborative artwork promoted numerous opportunities for engagement and resonance with the local community. The fusion of visual diaries and the digital emotional expression application is viewed as a practice of emotional meaning making, wherein art and technology agency is distributed.

Operational Competence of the Visual Arts Teacher in Art Practice: Interrogating the Underlying Factors

This study is on operational competence of Visual Arts teachers’ art practice, focusing on the factors influencing their competence and its relevance in contemporary contexts of arts education. Drawing upon literature from education, art pedagogy, and teacher training, this study identifies key factors that contribute to the operational competence of Visual Arts practice, including artistic skill, proficiency and reflective practice. Through an analysis of empirical studies and practical insights, the study highlights the visual arts teachers’ own art practice factors. It also underscores the significance of research informed policies and curriculum frameworks that support the holistic development of Visual Arts education and the cultivation of a vibrant artistic community within schools and society at large. It engages qualitative research design. A sample of twelve (12) Visual Arts students and one (1) Visual Arts teacher each from eleven (11) schools within the six Education Districts of Lagos State were purposively selected. Data was obtained using Portfolio Review Rubrics. Thematic Analysis was employed in analysing data gathered. Findings revealed that Visual Arts teachers’ competence in art practice differs in nuances of scope. It also revealed that teachers’ competence in art practice is a determinant of students’ learning outcome in art practice. Based on the findings, recommendations were made that workshops and conferences on art practice and pedagogy be organised for Visual Arts teachers to improve their operational competence in art practice. It further recommended that art teachers’ training curriculum be re-packaged to include more art practice activities than pedagogy so as to adequately build their art practice competence in scope and strength for prospective art teaching career.

Endowed with positive values and fatal weaknesses: Public art practices in post-industrial landscape --- A systematic review

Public art, due to its convenient participatory function and strong social integration ability, is being widely used in the protection, adaptive reuse and innovation of urban post-industrial landscape. In the process of urban renewal, although different forms of public art practice have brought many positive values and benefits to post-industrial landscape, such as the preference for sustainable development of the city, the continuation of urban context or the concern for local community residents based on “top-down” and “bottom-up” cases. Meanwhile, a series of fatal weaknesses arise are ultimately attributed to fragment and single protection of post-industrial landscape. The goal of this study is to systematically review and classify articles on the involvement of public art in post-industrial landscape (a process for screening articles was designed) in order to more clearly find out the positive values and fatal weaknesses of public art practice in various process of post-industrial landscape protection based on both “top-down” and “bottom-up” models. Most previous studies have focused on case analysis and have not discussed this issue or used this method. Therefore, the study is valuable. The conclusions of the study show eight positive values and seven fatal weaknesses in the application of public art practice in post-industrial landscape. It should be pointed out that “inspiring interaction and involvement” and “strengthening community identity,” are the most important factors in the practice of public art in post-industrial landscape. In the future stage, we should focus on and address the issue of "how to establish long-term artistic practice?” and “how we can better balance interests and rights among multiple stakeholders?" within public art academic ocean.

Musical creation laboratory as an environment for free expression: An ethnographic observation of creative dynamics

This ethnographic study investigates creative dynamics in a musical creation laboratory at the University of Rio Grande, Brazil. Data collection was obtained through semi-structured interviews conducted after the accomplishment of free improvisation activities. The research focused on the testimonies of 10 volunteer musicians, emphasizing the expectations, transformations, and reflections present in their narratives. The findings highlight how emotional experiences shape musical expression, revealing the transformative role of creativity in both individual and collective artistic practices. The study revealed that the process of creative freedom was deeply influenced by the participants’ emotions. These emotions, when experienced and expressed, reflected meanings and reinterpretations in how they perceived and positioned themselves both artistically and socially.

Economic Influence of the Practice of Pottery on Local Progress: The Pottery Centers of the Lacs District of Central Côte d'Ivoire as a Case Study

Pottery is an activity that has its origins in the Neolithic period. It allows producers to find a way to live. This traditional activity is considered an income-generating activity. Traditional pottery is an economic activity practiced by women. The examines pottery art practices of the Lake district through examination of potters’ techniques and development of their production. The study show characteristics of the pottery production of two ethnic groups and the impacts of pottery production on local development. To better understand our subject we adopted both a qualitative and quantitative approach. The responses from this research show at first glance that there are two ethnic groups producing traditional pottery in the Lakes district: the Baoulés (81%) and the Mangoros (19%) with different characteristics in their production. Then, the potters of the said district are not organized into a cooperative or association. And finally, the revenues from the factories are used to improve the living conditions of households.

Renegotiating the notion of artistic genius - within the frame of an institutional theatre

This exposition explores how the Betty Nansen Theatre in Copenhagen, with the artistic research project, BETTY DEVELOPS, works with spreading a collaborative practice to the infrastructure of an entire institutional theatre and how this renegotiates the notion of artistic genius and the star. The exposition offers a meta-reflection on the author’s artistic research activities at the theatre. These reflections shed light on what happens when collaborative methods of working and producing are implemented in an institutional theatre and discuss the extent to which artistic research can develop methods for collaborative co-creation as well as resistance to the neoliberal individualised performance culture. Could such methods prevent you from falling back on a modernist understanding of the artist as the original creator of an individual expression and instead support a collaborative art and knowledge practice? As opposed to defining artistic creation as something that springs from and comes from an individual (the artistic genius or star), the author argues that artistic creation is a relational act, and that art is something that comes to be between people. This exposition is a collage of empirical material, text, images, and video gathered and produced over the last five years while facilitating, documenting, researching, and sharing the development of fourteen BETTY DEVELOPS productions.

The Integration of Arts-Based Research Methods in Scientific Studies

Arts-based research (ABR) integrates creative and artistic practices into academic research, offering novel methodologies that enrich scientific inquiry. This interdisciplinary approach enables the exploration of complex human experiences, emotions, and phenomena through mediums like visual art, drama, poetry, and music. This paper examines the benefits and challenges of integrating arts-based research into scientific studies, highlighting its capacity to elicit deeper, embodied insights that complement traditional methods. While ABR fosters innovative data collection and engagement, it faces skepticism regarding rigor and validity in the scientific community. This study examines how the collaboration between scientists and artists can bridge these challenges, emphasizing best practices for effective integration. The paper concludes by offering examples of successful arts-based research in scientific contexts and suggests strategies for future implementation. Keywords: Arts-based research, Interdisciplinary research, Artistic methodologies, Scientific inquiry, Creative expression, Data collection.

The Stepwise Artification Process in Luxury Fashion: Strategic Integration With the Arts and Collaboration With Non‐Profit Institutions

ABSTRACTThis article investigates the diverse artification strategies used by luxury fashion brands to strengthen their connection with the art world and emphasises how these strategies infuse objects, practices, and brands with artistic value. Using a theoretical framework, the research classifies the Altagamma and Comité Colbert brands into distinct clusters representing various stages of the artification process, from early exploration to full integration of artistic practices. The study analyses the ways in which these stages reflect the brands’ historical evolution and strategic investments in artification, particularly in response to market threats. Between 2019 and 2024, 81.25% of the 39 brands examined in this study engaged in at least one artistic activity, such as artist collaborations, art installations or incorporating artistic elements into collections. This study offers new insights by expanding the understanding of artification and classifying underexplored connections between luxury brands, artists and non‐profit cultural institutions. It reveals how brands, despite differing approaches, recognise artification as a key strategy in enhancing identity and positioning in the luxury market.

Technology-Enhanced Art and Sustainable Discourse Practices

This study explored the potential of technology-enhanced art in fostering sustainable discourse practices and social connection in the digital age. As technology advances, new opportunities emerge to integrate digital tools into creative practices, particularly in the realm of art. By examining the intersection of art, technology, and discourse analysis through a sustainability lens, this research aims to uncover innovative approaches to promoting effective communication, civic engagement, collaboration, intercultural understanding, empathy, and resilience incorporating co-design processes, shared decision-making, or collaborative art-making activities. The study provides an overview of technology-enhanced art practices including social media, virtual reality, interactive installations, and digital storytelling tools, and their impact on discourse practices within diverse socio-cultural contexts. It investigates the role of digital platforms and creative processes in facilitating social connection through discourse. The research focuses on a thematic approach to technology-enhanced art interventions that promote sustainable discourse practices and social connection. Through a thematic and intervention-based approach, this research combines a review of current literature with case studies showcasing the successful implementation of technology-enhanced art interventions. So the current study argues that technology-enhanced art holds significant potential for fostering sustainable discourse practices and social connection in the digital age. By harnessing the power of digital tools and creative processes in an environmentally conscious manner, artists, educators, and practitioners can support social connections. This, in turn, contributes to personal, social, and environmental resilience in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Shaping civic values of modern youth: Evaluating the influence of the international plein air as a specially organized artistic practice

Introduction. The article investigates the problem of patriotic education of modern youth. The purpose of the research is to identify and clarify the peculiarities of the influence of an international plein air as a specially organized artistic practice on the formation of modern youth civic values. Materials and Methods. The research is based on axiological and personality-centered approaches. The main research method is theoretical (reviewing regulatory documents and scholarly literature, analysis and synthesis, comparison, generalization and data interpretation). In addition, a practical method was used (students performing search and short-term training exercises, as well as long-term artistic compositions). The project of the International Art Competition called ‘Without Borders’ that is analyzed in the article is a new format of an online professional Internet competition for students majoring in Arts for partner pedagogical universities. Results. The article analyzes the results of the international project on patriotic education and formation of civic values in modern students, implemented within the framework of cooperation between pedagogical universities of Belarus and Russia. The study convincingly proves that it is the plein air that provides an effective environment for developing students’ artistic and creative skills, implementing patriotic education of students, as well as contributes to shaping their readiness to organize patriotic educational activities in the future. Conclusions. The article concludes about the specifics of the influence of the international plein air as a specially organized artistic practice on the formation of modern students’ civic values.

The elegance of lacquer: Unveiling traditional lacquer techniques in East Asia

This research delves into the intricate world of lacquer art in East Asia, aiming to unravel the relationships among artisan perspectives, aesthetic values, and the contemporary relevance of this ancient craft. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how historical development, apprenticeship traditions, and evolving aesthetic values shape the intricate landscape of lacquer artistry. Employing a qualitative approach, this study conducts in-depth interviews with artisans and experts in the field of lacquer art. The research involves a comparative analysis of past literature, drawing upon historical and contemporary works to contextualize the findings within the broader trajectory of lacquer art. Thematic analysis is also applied to unravel the nuances of artisan perspectives, the transmission of knowledge through apprenticeship traditions, and the cultural and aesthetic dimensions embedded in lacquer paintings. This mixed-methods approach enriches the study by providing a holistic and nuanced exploration of the identified variables. The findings illuminate the enduring significance of apprenticeship traditions in preserving traditional lacquer techniques, with artisans actively navigating challenges posed by globalization and digital platforms. Aesthetic values, including symbolism and visual harmony, are revealed as integral components contributing to the narrative richness of lacquer paintings. The study uncovers the dynamic relationships among these variables, emphasizing the adaptive nature of lacquer art in a contemporary context. The implications extend to cultural preservation, heritage management, and educational initiatives, offering valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and educators involved in the realm of traditional crafts. The study contributes to theoretical frameworks on cultural continuity, knowledge transmission, and the socio-cultural dynamics of artistic practices.

Student Opinions on the Sustainable Art Practice of Printmaking Papers Converted from Waste Paper

This research focuses on understanding and addressing environmental issues through art by integrating waste paper into sustainable art practices. The unique value of this study lies in its emphasis on the fact that combining recycled paper with art carries not only environmental benefits but also social and creative potential. As part of the research, paper-making workshops were organized to facilitate the convergence of recycled paper with art, during which waste paper was recycled to produce printmaking paper. Subsequently, participants were given the opportunity to carry out linoleum printing applications by incorporating local elements into their works. In this research, implementation and examination studies were conducted in line with the stated aims and objectives. The study employed a case study design, one of the qualitative research methods, and data were collected through a semi-structured interview form. Based on these data, it was clearly demonstrated that the students who participated in the paper recycling workshop and engaged in the processes of printing on recycled materials for sustainable art practices experienced an increase in environmental awareness, and their positive impact on sustainable art was clearly revealed.