AGM60 Research & Experimentation Module Introduction 4 February 2020

The first seminar of this module introduced the class to the requirements of this practical module. In addition, it gave the group the opportunity to discuss these requirements in relation to the practice work. After the first Semester’s focus on pure theory and analysis, it was both exciting and daunting to take the first steps to the production of work at this level.

One of the main aspects of this module is how I will be encouraged to engage with the notion of ‘research’ in relation to my own possible subject matter and photographic themes of interest. This has been an on-going theme with my studies so far, specifically with my Level 2, 3 and four courses. This research contributed to and strengthened my -photographic practice, giving it a more solid and informed foundation.

The seminar started with a presentation by the Module Leader, Xaviar Ribas, and Module Tutor, Fergus Heron.

In addition to the introduction, it was outlined to the class as to what ‘research’ means generally in relation to contemporary art and/or photographic practice. Also highlighted were the various approaches and strategies I may use in terms of:

• Building, developing and formalising a practice-based ‘research dossier’
• Considering how I can make the documentation of research an effective, streamlined and productive aspect of my studies

The class was also introduced to what is expected in terms of the research dossiers that will be submitted alongside practice-based work throughout the MA

The following is a summary of the presentation given by Xaviar and Fergus during the seminar:

What is Research?

• What is meant by ‘research’?
• Why is this research necessary?
• How is research useful for me as a practitioner?

The Point of Research

• Understanding the context of a text/image
• Understanding what I/the author/the artist is trying to do
• Understanding a historical position
• Being aware of the current arguments and contemporary discussions around it
• Using it as the beginning of a journey
• Opening up further questions/investigations
• Changing and extending the way in which we see it
• Beginning to map an intellectual or creative landscape
• Recognising contradictions, misperceptions, suppressions, etc.
• Opening up new forms of engagement with my practice and the field

 

The ultimate aim of the above is to DEFINE, UNDERSTAND and DEVELOP:

• A field of research
• A field of practice

 

How to Record Research

• Take notes
• Write clear and considered summaries of texts, talks, exhibitions, events etc.
• Write commentaries and responses to texts, talks, exhibitions, events etc.
• Gather relevant information so I can properly reference these
• Produce extended bibliographies of intended/potential readings
• Collect stuff (images, ephemera, etc.)
• Write a journal/blog

 

Why Do We Submit Research for Practice?

• To demonstrate the scope and depth of a project
• To demonstrate a confident working process
• To show all developmental work
• To prepare for explaining, contextualising and justifying one’s work for others

 

What is a Research Dossier?

Although there is no correct format, my research dossier should be:

• Edited/streamlined
• Written with reflective consideration
• Truthful/honest/self-reflective
• Critically considered and unembellished

 

Suggested Content for a Research Dossier

• Project proposal: identifying key questions, contexts and fundamental reasons for my project
• Primary visual & artistic influences and references including in-depth, critical and reflective consideration of each, both in general and specifically in relation to my project
• Primary historical, critical and theoretical influences and references including in-depth, critical and reflective consideration of each, both in general and specifically in relation to my project
• Production research, development, and experimentation: identifying and reflecting upon research, development, and experimentations in terms of the actual/practical production of the project itself
• Bibliography: including proposed future readings/references relevant to the project and a list of artworks and sources [Guide to the Harvard referencing system: http://www.citethisforme.com/harvardreferencing]
• Artist Statement: to accompany and support my portfolio of practice