Diagram of Visual Research at the ICI

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Over the last decade, many thinkers have attempted to diagram the interlocking processes of studio-based research in an attempt to clarify the need for a PhD degree in studio art (http://thinkingpractices.wordpress.com/theories-of-art-practices-as-research/). We have been inspired by these attempts to chart what we do fairly naturally … Continue readingDiagram of Visual Research at the ICI

Interviewing the Dead: Sebald’s Words

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The Searching for Sebald project was a landmark event for the ICI because it opened the door to a whole new toolbox for doing creative research. Sebald’s bricolage gave us permission to “play” more than we usually do. In this case, we transcribed an interview … Continue readingInterviewing the Dead: Sebald’s Words

ICI Technic: Incantation

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In a memorial service for one of our founding associates, cigars, food, money, and a healthy shot of whiskey were used to conjure up Papa Legba, the spirit guardian of the Crossroads. Incantation derives from Middle English, from the Anglo-French enchanter, reminding us that the casting of spells … Continue readingICI Technic: Incantation

ICI Technic: Miniaturization

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As Susan Stewart has proposed, the miniature operates at the place of origin—the childhood of the self—creating an “interior temporality of the subject,” a place for private contemplation. When the physical dimensions of material ideas are decreased, so too are the roles of hierarchy and narrative. Miniaturization … Continue readingICI Technic: Miniaturization

ICI Technic: Data Collection

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Data Collection is sometimes undertaken before a research ‘question’ is in mind. Some materials are collected because their physical presence is absorbing and compelling. Other times we encounter objects or their fragments that disrupt our current belief systems even when the relationship of their content … Continue readingICI Technic: Data Collection