ART420 | Field work and Appropriation.

23/01/2024

The concept of Interdisciplinary work is difficult to explain. It’s the combined use of discipline specific research methods, documentation and the use of various mediums. If more disciplines and processes are used, then the overall outcome will be well rounded. 

https://daricgill.com/2013/08/26/define-your-discipline/

Break down of the diagram (in simple terms)

1.Discipline.   Just bread. Simple. JUST RESEARCH. 1 TYPE OF BREAD. 1 type of research. 

2. Mixed- Media.   Using materials BUT no research 

3.Multidisciplinary.    Research and doing

4.Interdisciplinary.     Deep understanding and use of different/ multiple fields. Research and use.

5.Transdisciplinary.    USE OF EVERYTHING

Appropriation and fieldwork 

“Field work is the process of observing and collecting data about people, cultures, and natural environments”

TASK 

Appropriate (with permission) someone’s work. Show theme understanding. 

 Image of Etching plate | Artist Lucy Towner 

From looking at Lucy's installation, I felt drawn to this piece for the purpose of appropriation. On her labels she mentions the influence of film, photography, mental health and self. These themes, along with the image, offer inspiration and opportunities to add to this piece. 

I decided to first photograph her installation of the etching plate. Setting this as a still image, I recorded a voice over to add context and details. This was completed 1 line at a time, alternating speech between myself and Lucy Towner. The tone of voice used was intentionally instructional and a little condescending, with the aim of placing the viewer in this scenario to educate.

 I completed field work in the form of asking specific questions. I asked people to share their negative responses from mental health professionals and help/crisis lines. I found that when I was talking to one person about their experience, others would overhear and join the conversation. The side of the story missing from this project is that of those with positive experiences, meaning the end result is only one side of the truth. The anonymous use of these experiences, organised and read out, almost creates a character that has asked for help, or is raising awareness. When linking a message to a person, it can hold deeper meaning. 

Image of etching plate produced by Lucy Towner. Audio recording by Katie Watkins and Lucy Towner.

Returning to the theme of appropriation, this outcome causes a question of authorship. Lucy chose the initial theme, created the etching plate and installed it. I wrote out the script following my research, and joined the audio recording to the photograph of the etching plate. The initial plate and theme became something new when the audio was added, with more context and deeper meaning.  With acknowledgement of Lucy’s involvement, I’d argue that it is justified to claim authorship for the combined outcome, the photo used with the voiceover.