Betwixt and Between
(2025)
author(s): Max Spielmann, Daniel Hug, Catherine Walthard, Andrea Iten
published in: RUUKKU - Studies in Artistic Research
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we, in our role as lecturers, conducted hybrid workshops with design and art students from ten partner institutions on five continents. Our goal was to explore soundscapes from different viewpoints, and we were deeply impressed by the outcome. The recordings and their accompanying images and conversations dissolved geographical borders along with social, cultural, and structural differences. Following Hartmut Rosa, we understand this atmosphere of connection produced between the participants and the soundscapes themselves to be a resonance space, which only became explicit to us after some time had passed. In this article, we re-interpret this space through personal recollections and theoretical positions, and claim that such a collaboration holds pedagogical and artistic implications for future teaching and creative practice. These include not only the impact upon technology in the classroom, temporal perception, inter-relationality, and care practices, but also the artistic benefits of opening up spaces of resonance as a means of engaging with the challenge of intercultural communication and witnessing in our global world.
Sonic Conversations for Double Bass, Berimbau and Sámi Joik: Shaping Identity in the Third Space
(2020)
author(s): Nathan Riki Thomson
published in: RUUKKU - Studies in Artistic Research
This exposition presents, unpacks and discusses the effects of intercultural dialogue and collaboration on the formation of an individual personal artistic identity, through the lens of two musical duets. These artistic research case studies are centred around the author in dialogue with a Brazilian berimbau player and a Sámi singer, which act as focal points to examine how intercultural dialogue and collaboration can impact on the formation of a personal artistic identity and how the third space emerging from a transcultural dialogue can be a catalyst for new musical discoveries. In addition, I consider the kinds of musical and communication skills that are needed to co-create music in a transcultural context and which kinds of ethical issues arise.
The core thread of discussion and argumentation is centred firstly around the idea that by placing oneself in diverse and unknown musical environments and engaging in dialogue, a dynamic third space emerges, which holds within it the opportunity for new elements and approaches to surface and take shape in unexpected ways. And secondly, I propose that searching for points of resonance with the world around us may be crucial in the creation of meaning and the formation of a personal artistic identity. Although the practice of music making is at the core of this research, the work is viewed with a wide-angle lens, acknowledging findings that point to the importance and potential benefits of increasing intercultural dialogue, understanding, collaboration and resonance at all levels of society. Discoveries also emerge within the areas of extended instrumental techniques and an expanded sonic palette for the double bass, as well as the creation of new music.
This exposition zooms in on two examples from my complete artistic doctoral project at Sibelius Academy, Uniarts, Helsinki, namely the two sonic conversations for double bass and berimbau, and double bass and Sámi joik.
Exploring Japanese (Inspired) Music
(last edited: 2023)
author(s): Martine Mussies
This exposition is in progress and its share status is: visible to all.
Objective:
This proposed exposition aims to critically examine the pitfalls of Orientalism and Occidentalism within the context of artistic research in music. By delving into the complexities of cultural representation and misrepresentation, it seeks to challenge preconceived notions and foster a more nuanced understanding of cross-cultural musical encounters.
Methodology:
Comparative Analysis: Through an in-depth comparative analysis, I will investigate the ways in which Orientalism and Occidentalism manifest in music performance practices. Drawing on diverse musical traditions, including Japanese influences, I will explore the power dynamics, stereotypes, and misappropriations that can arise when engaging with cultural musical expressions.
Sonic Experimentation:
Building on my expertise as a professional musician, I will create original compositions and sonic installations inspired by the concepts of wabi sabi, mono no aware, and ma. These explorations will serve as sonic reflections on the intricate relationship between artistic research, cultural heritage, and personal interpretation, allowing for a deeper engagement with the complexities of musical representation.
Critical Reflection:
Throughout the exposition, I will engage in critical reflection on my own artistic practice, acknowledging and addressing the potential biases, blind spots, and unintended consequences that can arise when navigating the cultural landscape of music. By scrutinizing my own work and interrogating the underlying assumptions, I aim to foster a greater awareness of the ethical and social implications inherent in artistic research.
Expected Contributions:
Providing insights into the manifestations of Orientalism and Occidentalism within music performance practices and their impact on cultural representation.
Illuminating the potential pitfalls of cultural appropriation and misinterpretation in artistic research, while proposing alternative approaches that embrace collaboration and respectful dialogue.
Fostering critical dialogue within the field, encouraging fellow artists and researchers to engage in self-reflection and thoughtful engagement with cultural differences.
Audience Engagement:
To ensure a broad and inclusive audience engagement, I plan to organize interactive workshops and performances, inviting participants to immerse themselves in the sounds and stories that emerge from my artistic research. By actively involving the audience, I aim to facilitate meaningful conversations about cultural exchange, representation, and the potential transformative power of music.
Anticipated Impact:
This exposition seeks to challenge established paradigms, disrupt Orientalist and Occidentalist frameworks, and promote a more equitable and culturally sensitive approach to artistic research in music. By critically examining the pitfalls of cultural misrepresentation, it aims to contribute to a more inclusive and respectful musical landscape that celebrates diversity and fosters cross-cultural understanding.