Artistic Wandering: The Act of Wandering as Artwork

Artistic Wandering: The Act of Wandering as Artwork

This PhD originates 'Artistic Wandering', as a concept where the act of wandering itself is the artwork, emphasising the artist’s phenomenological experience above the physical art objects produced. This approach introduces a new system of artistic practice in visual art that prioritises the experiential process and the artist’s internal journey over tangible outcomes. Unlike the ‘dematerialisation’ argument of conceptual art, which primarily emphasises ideas over form, Artistic Wandering underscores the physical act and personal sensory engagement of the artist with their environment. It also acknowledges the importance of the resulting art objects as archive. While these objects are secondary to the experience of wandering, they are essential in providing a tangible link between the artist’s wandering artwork and the viewer. Central to this research are questions exploring the viability of wandering as artwork, the locus of meaning in art beyond physical objects, and the viewer's engagement with the archived artefacts of Artistic Wandering. The archive within Artistic Wandering serves a dual purpose: it not only documents the ephemeral artwork and insight but also preserves the art objects that are integral to the concept of Artistic Wandering. This distinction ensures that the archive extends beyond traditional roles, highlighting the transitory nature of the artistic experiences captured during artistic wandering while also maintaining a tangible connection to the artwork. This research redefines the boundaries between the artist, the artwork, the art object, and the viewer, proving that the act of creation as wandering, and the resulting experience, is a more significant outcome than the final art object. By elevating the ephemeral process of Artistic Wandering to the level of the artwork, it invites contemplation, expansion, and a deeper understanding of this novel approach. The act of wandering encourages engagement from both the artist, who explores and internalises the environment, and the viewer, who connects with the artist's journey through the documented and archived experiences. This engagement fosters a unique connection, enhancing the appreciation of the wandering experience as an artistic expression.