MQAR—Matching Qualities in Artistic Research

Abstract

Session #12 (Artistic Research Week 2022) Link to—Hands | The Double (Henrik Hellstenius and Ellen Ugelvik): https://vimeo.com/662338060

Short name: MQAR (Matching Qualities in Artistic Research)

Contributors: —Henrik Hellstenius (Prof. of composition at NMH); —Theodor Barth (Prof. of theory and writing at KHiO).

This session was not a on artistic quality. We discussed qualities in plural. More specifically the qualities were are looking for in the artistic result and process in research and how we conceive a balance, equilibrium or parity between art and research in artistic research.

We perceive that this topic is more/less implicitly under debate in most artistic research projects, when discussed in conferences and gatherings. We ventured to develop and articulate some of our own ideas on the matter, based on case materials from two projects.

Henrik Hellstenius articulated his points on the backdrop of the project Extended Composition (terminated) focussing particularly on his work with Ellen Ugelvik on Hands. The Double. Theodor Barth similarly proceeded from his ongoing Project Spinoza, with Exhibit #14(1) as his case (see separate entry on KHIODA).

The two both operate in a hybrid artistic-academic space, with emphasis on the artistic space for Henrik Hellstenius, and the academic space for Theodor Barth. They exploit their hybridity and difference of emphasis to home in on slow—or, passive—registers of qualities, where aesthetic and epistemic dimensions of artistic research arguably may converge.

Hellstenius and Barth pitched for 20’ each and then engaged a discussion with the audience. The total duration of the session was 1 hour (09:30-10:30).

Link to #14/1—Lineup: https://khioda.khio.no/khio-xmlui/handle/11250/2839044