Output details

Hand and Mind - Shaping Experience

ISBN: 978-0-9805035-8-6

This journal article describes the significance of hand use and emotion in the development of visual artworks. The paper draws from research that explores how physical experiences and in particular the use of the hands, are instrumental in the development of creative thought. By examining the creative practice of an artist who integrates hand and digital processes it has been possible to observe how new ideas are shaped and influenced. Using ethnographic qualitative research methods that integrate analysis of audio-visual recorded data with photographic documentation, it has been possible to gain insight into how technology is impacting upon the creative process and reveal the importance of the hands in developing imaginative thought. This paper draws from case study research including projects funded by the AHRC and the Carnegie Trust. The paper presents findings from practice-led investigations, which include the development of new artworks and designs using cutting edge digital print technology. It contextualises the findings and extends the knowledge beyond the discipline of art and design into the fields of health and wellbeing, psychology and art therapy. The paper was one of four selected for inclusion in the journal following presentation at the ArtsHealth International Symposium held at University of Newcastle NSW, Australia in 2008. This paper was invited by the symposium organisers following presentation of a different paper at Neocraft, an international conference on craft, held in Canada in 2007. This is significant as it reveals the level of international academic interest in the research that underpins this journal article. This output (and conference paper presentation) resulted in an invitation to exhibit a related practice-led research project: ‘Shorelines’ in Australia. This exhibition took place in October 2010 and the 2010 International ArtsHealth Symposium was hosted in the gallery with these artworks.