Hosts: Sam Price, Sheanne Su, Natasha Zilcosky

In this casually academic episode, hosts Sam, Sheanne, and Natasha explore the influence that theory, research, and self-reflection have in their personal practices as artists and students. Throughout the episode, they tie practice-led research and research-led practice to their topics and experiences. The conversation begins with Natasha, who explains the importance of theory and research in artistic practice, particularly the power that research has to open doors and give works depth and meaning. They share their personal experiences of how they are able to gain insights on their identity and embody their heritage through their sewing. Sheanne delves into the topic of how the study of visual art can enhance one’s ability to communicate complex ideas, touching on abstract thinking, the use of symbolism, and the connections it has with literacy. The group comments on their personal chosen mediums and how the choice of the medium itself carries meaning in their pieces. Sam engages with the question, “What is the significance of self-reflexivity in the practice of visual art?” by connecting to how it has been a valuable tool as research throughout artistic processes. She shares the set stages in which she uses self-reflection in her own art-making and how the activity allows her to process her experiences as well as document knowledge that can be used to propel the next project she works on. The students also share their methods of reflection and how they use the research in their artmaking. The discussion prompts listeners to consider the often overlooked and underappreciated part of the art-making process: research, as well as how they can mindfully integrate its aspects in their works to create depth.