Dear Colleagues
It is interesting that in the publicity surrounding a number of recent
drawing events, there has been little or no reference to research. Given
the current upsurge of research activity, one might have imagined that
research would occupy a central position in academic conferences and
symposia yet, contrarily, discussion of the subject appears almost to have
been sidelined. I don't understand why this should be so. Could it be that:
a. There is still much disagreement concerning the nature of research in
our field. Consequently, debates are difficult, sometimes heated, and make
us uncomfortable.
b. The current shift of emphasis towards research undermines the status and
authority of practitioners occupying academic positions. They,
understandably, seek to avoid any discussion which might expose their
weaknesses in this area.
c. Much of the most influential drawing research in the last 50 years has
been done by experts in other fields, for example psychologists. But the
historical separation of art schools from mainstream academia has made us
loath to engage with, or be challenged by, ideas from other disciplines.
d. Artists are uncomfortable about the possible demystification of their
activities, which might further undermine their 'special' status.
e. 'Making' is the important thing, the primary activity. Formal research
is an unwelcome and time consuming distraction.
I would be very interested to hear what others think.
George Whale.
http://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/ac/ad/htmlpages/staff/gwhale.html
George Whale
Research Associate
Loughborough University School of Art & Design (LUSAD)
Loughborough
Leicestershire
LE11 3TU
UK
Tel: +44 (0)1509 228967
Mobile: 07944 751088
Fax: +44 (0)1509 228902
|