Artistic research

Definition

Artistic research is a practice-based approach that merges artistic practice with academic inquiry, focusing on the creative process as a means of producing knowledge. This type of research emphasizes the significance of the artist's work as a form of inquiry, where the act of creating art itself generates insights and questions that contribute to broader discussions within the art world and beyond.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Artistic research often challenges traditional academic methods by prioritizing the creative process over conventional data collection and analysis.
2. This form of research can lead to innovative exhibition concepts by allowing curators to draw on insights gained directly from artistic practice.
3. Artistic research encourages collaboration between artists, researchers, and audiences, fostering a dialogue that enhances the impact of both art and research.
4. The outcomes of artistic research can take various forms, including visual artworks, publications, lectures, and community engagement projects.
5. Artistic research is increasingly recognized in academic institutions, leading to new programs and funding opportunities that support interdisciplinary projects.

Review Questions

• How does artistic research differ from traditional forms of academic inquiry?
  • Artistic research diverges from traditional academic inquiry by emphasizing the creative process as a source of knowledge rather than solely relying on data collection and analysis. In this approach, artists engage in their practice to ask questions and generate insights, valuing the act of creation as a critical part of the research. This shift allows for a more fluid exploration of ideas, which can lead to unexpected discoveries and innovative outcomes.
• In what ways can artistic research influence the development of exhibition concepts?
  • Artistic research can significantly shape exhibition concepts by providing fresh perspectives rooted in artistic practice. Curators can draw on insights gained from artists’ explorations to create exhibitions that not only showcase artworks but also invite viewers into a deeper understanding of the themes and processes behind them. This connection enriches the viewer's experience and can provoke discussions about art's role in society.
• Evaluate the impact of transdisciplinary approaches within artistic research on contemporary art practices.
  • Transdisciplinary approaches within artistic research have a profound impact on contemporary art practices by fostering collaboration across diverse fields. This integration allows artists to incorporate methods and theories from disciplines such as science or philosophy into their work, enriching their artistic expression and opening new avenues for inquiry. As a result, artists are able to tackle complex social issues more effectively and engage broader audiences through multi-faceted narratives that resonate on multiple levels.

Related terms

Practice-led research: A research methodology where the practice of creating art informs and shapes the research questions and outcomes, emphasizing experiential knowledge gained through artistic work.

Transdisciplinary: An approach that integrates methods and perspectives from multiple disciplines to create new frameworks for understanding complex issues, particularly relevant in artistic research that intersects with fields like science, philosophy, and sociology.

Artistic outcomes: The tangible results produced through artistic research, such as exhibitions, performances, or installations, which serve as both the medium and the message of the research findings.