 |
|
         |
|
 |
|
      |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
|||
|
Background & Context
NightWalking is an event which is taking place within a context of increasing interest in the processes which
lie behind artistic works. It is presented by ResCen, the Centre for Research into Creation in the Performing Arts
which was established at Middlesex University in 1999. The ResCen Research Associates are Ghislaine Boddington,
Shobana Jeyasingh, Richard Layzell, Rosemary Lee, Graeme Miller and Errollyn Wallen. In accordance with ResCen practice, this event is artist-led and the themes of the weekend have been chosen to
enable fluid and salient communications centred around issues of process and the re-presentation of those processes.
Magic (mess and misery); Making trouble; Collaborations; Confessional; Toolbox / box of tricks / tricks of the trade;
Porosity; and Deadline/ lifeline/ timeline all offered points of reference within the over-arching notion of the
artist navigating the unknown. This focus on process as navigation, casts the artist as a skilled practitioner operating in a domain of knowledge
which is often highly specialised and which resists being reduced to a realm of mere inspiration and instinct. While
both inspiration and instinct may be vital in the territory of the unknown, they are nevertheless highly refined
tools, operating in concert with a rigorously honed apparatus which is assembled from disciplinary sources,
specialised practices and particular sensibilities. The consideration of process precludes a view of art as simply artefact or commodity and also offers opportunities
to draw parallels with the working practices of others from scientists to architects. NightWalking therefore includes
a selection of views from other fields as points of reference and to stimulate further reflection and exchange. Regrettably, it has not been possible to include all those who expressed interest nor has it been possible to
represent all areas of creative practice in the performing arts; nonetheless we believe that the selection that has
been made exemplifies a range of working processes which will challenge and stimulate. It is also important to acknowledge that many others have made, and are making, significant contributions to this
area of investigation. NightWalking seeks to add to these debates and to provide an arena in which the vital
expertise, ownership and responsibility of the creative artist can be celebrated. We hope that you will join us for
this weekend and that it will offer you fresh insights into the richness and diversity of artistic practice
today. Professor Christopher Bannerman
|
     |
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|