The Sharing of Work/ The Work of Sharing: engaging Artistic Research

A defining characteristic of artistic research is the rejection of simple binaries, in pursuit of a complex, interwoven relationship between theoria, praxis and poiesis. This is, no doubt, a point of philosophical inquiry. However, for those who identify as practicing artist-scholars, it is also a recurring practical challenge, particularly within academic conference situations. How can artistic research practices be effectively shared in contexts that traditionally prioritize scholarly papers and presentations? Early in its evolution, the Artistic Research Working Group (ARWG) of Performance Studies international (PSi) initiated what was called the Porous Studio, an attempt to create a studio-like setting within and during the PSi conference. Participating artist-scholars, as well as local artists from the conference host country, were invited to share their work in ways that, similar to the presentation of papers and panels, elicited direct critical response from those in attendance. Building upon this project, the ARWG has continued to experiment with models of exchange, leading within recent years to a three-part engagement that we initially called “Perform­ Respond-Extract,” and most recently identified as “Perform-Respond-Extend.” Both models involve structured, interactive engagement between group members, including preparatory work prior to the gathering, artistic presentation during the conference, and reflective documentation after the event. The next full PSi ARWG meeting will take place during the summer of 2021. At the Performing Philosophy Conference, our panel will offer a concentrated version of some of the working group’s key processes by a reduced number of its longer-term members. Conference delegates will be welcome to participate as observers and respondents. Details of the ARWG’s history can be found on our blog.: https://psi-artistic-research-working-group.blogspot.com.