Mira Kallio-Tavin

8.14 Evolving Views on Arts-Based and Artistic Research (Paper)

Mira Kallio-Tavin – University of Georgia, USA

Anniina Suominen – Aalto University, School of Art, Design and Architecture, Finland

Abstract:

This presentation explores contemporary perspectives on arts-based and artistic research in light of earlier approaches. The goal of this presentation is to view specific – rather than general – perspectives, examining not only the current landscape but also the historical evolution of arts-based and artistic research and the motivations behind these changes. We focus on the present state while considering what might be interesting or necessary for other researchers, especially for the next generation of scholars. In critical artistic and post-qualitative research, it has not been essential to expand beyond traditional qualitative methods; rather, these approaches increasingly arise from contemporary theories and an art-centred orientation. We see a major recent shift in the concept of the Anthropocene as a defining human condition, recognizing its impact on arts-based and artistic research. Specifically, acknowledging the Anthropocene influences how we experience response-ability, pushing us to reconsider humanity’s possible roles in relation to the planet’s limitations. Growing environmental concerns, including biodiversity loss and species extinction, have gained significant attention in recent years. Through this presented study, we aim to explore how these historical and current changes shape the evolving landscape of arts-based and artistic research.