In my research paper I will be proposing that spatial interventions can serve as a form of documentary. Particularly, I will be examining the ways in which creative works use reality as a material and serve in some way a documentary function in their treatment of the tangible and intangible aspects of space.
My current working research question is as follows:
To what extent can spatial (art) interventions be read as a documentary (of human/cultural/political/social) (narratives/histories/interactions)?
My intention is for this paper to be made up of three parts.
1 DEFINING ‘SPACE’ / ‘INTERVENTION’ / ‘SPATIAL INTERVENTION’
Outlining the key terms required to engage with the question.
Contemplating various theories of space and exploring a cultural history of art as a means of intervention, be it in the appearance, perception or interaction with physical space.
2 DEFINING ‘DOCUMENTARY’
Considering the nature of documentary; form and theory. Examining ‘alternative documentary’ in art-making, experimental film and non-traditional formats. What does it mean to ‘document’? Must a documentary engage with traditional narratives?
3 DIRECTORY / DOSSIER OF SPATIAL INTERVENTIONS AS DOCUMENTARY
A visual and textual collection of significant spatial interventions.
Potentially encompassing a range of artworks, films, theories, systems, objects, architecture, events, movements etc that help to illustrate aspects of the aforementioned definitions.
A literary review of sorts, engaging with theory but also important works that could arguably be understood as a form of documentary. Creating a new / alternative narrative for reading spatially-concerned works?
WORKING BIBLIOGRAPHY
Massey, D. (2005) For Space
London: SAGE Publications
Ritter, R. (1998) Dokumente zur Architektur 10: Other Spaces – The Affair of the Heterotopia
Graz: Haus der Architektur
Stallabrass, J. (2013) Documents of Contemporary Art: Documentary
London: Whitechapel Gallery
QUESTIONS / NOTES
How do I make the directory/dossier critically engaging? A visual literary review?
How do I relate this to my own practice? I don’t feel that committed to what I’m doing but I’m excited to talk about other people’s work – got to fight the journalistic instinct (or do I?)