Verktøy som materiale
(2020)
author(s): Øyvind Brandtsegg
published in: VIS - Nordic Journal for Artistic Research
In this exposition I wish to point to a type of artistic research evolving around development of technology as artistic material, as an extension to the condition of possibility for an artistic expression. The well known distinction between research *for* and research *in* the arts, in my opinion becomes blurred in these type of works. Those tools developed to facilitate the artistic exploration constitute the base material for the artist, and the development of these tools are an intrinsic part of the artistic process. The examples are shown as recorded sound and video, and the technological material is thus still hidden from the reader. They can not see the material itself, just the traces it leaves. I would argue that the artistic process here starts with the investigation of potential, guiding the development of tools, and the tools will have certain affordances correlating with some aspects of the original artistic spark (desire). The artistic process of exploring said affordances will also in many cases lead to unexpected outcomes, in the interaction between human and machine, artist and tool
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.
Gecomponeerde uitvoerders : het musicerende lichaam vanuit compositorisch perspectief
(last edited: 2023)
author(s): Paul Craenen
This exposition is in progress and its share status is: visible to all.
The music-performing body fulfills an essential role in the creation of new instrumental compositions. However, its presence is rarely the primary concern of compositional thinking. With most musical experimentation, the music-making body keeps a self-evident function as a transparent medium for musical ideas, but also as a limitation on the potential for musical exploitation. Recent artistic and theoretical developments invite a rethink of the compositional potential of the music-performing body. Focus on the music-making body and the physicality of the music experience has intensified in recent decades. A body paradigm is becoming audible and visible in the work of a generation of young composers, as well as in musicological research. The micro-temporality of physical gesture and instrumental timbre have become key points of interest. In the micro-temporal space, physical presence is unveiled as a very direct interactive ability of the performer or improviser but also as a 'bodily thinking' of the composing body. Based on recent scientific insights and both historical and recent music examples, Paul Craenen develops a concept of 'intercorporeality' that sheds new light on the relationship between music performers, composers and music consumers.