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  • Experiments in Interfaces

Mancke, Carol, 2020, Journal Article, Experiments in Interfaces Archnet-ijar, 13 (3). pp. 670-682. ISSN 2631-6862

Abstract or Description:

Purpose:
Exploring the need for ‘neutral’ public space located between the private act of voting and formal deliberative democracy, this paper examines two interfaces between everyday life and democratic politics and considers ways this territory can be a site for generative artistic practises.

Approach:
Many artists and architects work in the space between the individual and formal collective political processes. Speculating outward from two artworks by the author and drawing on the thought of Hannah Arendt, Rosalyn Deutsche, Chantal Mouffe, Bruno Latour and others, this paper maps theory to the territory and proposes a new framework for reconsidering the work of such practitioners.

Findings:
Three potentially fruitful avenues for exploration as artistic practice related to democratic interfaces are identified and discussed through examples.

Originality and value:
This exploration is part of a broader practice-led research project into models of public collaborative thinking within the context of artistic practice. Many argue that the public realm has been co-opted by neo-liberal political and economic forces, resulting in a sense of hopelessness that limits our ability to imagine anything else. This research reflects on artistic tactics that counter this sense of hopelessness. These practices often suggest alternative social structures, foster ephemeral (local) public spheres or propose spatial configurations that support these. This paper offers a useful framework for reflecting on the work of politically-engaged artists and architects as well as structuring new projects.

Subjects: Creative Arts and Design > W100 Fine Art
School or Centre: School of Arts & Humanities
Identification Number or DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/ARCH-05-2019-0116
Date Deposited: 21 Jan 2020 10:28
Last Modified: 21 Jan 2020 10:28
URI: https://researchonline.rca.ac.uk/id/eprint/4266
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