Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art from edX

This course is part of the University of Cambridge’s MicroMasters programme in Writing for Performance and Entertainment Industries.

How can we use story within the practice of art installation? What function does narrative ‘perform’ in the world of performance art? Do you want to create an interdisciplinary text as a basis for a three-dimensional site-specific piece of work? We will be looking in depth at how to find your own distinctive voice as you develop as a performance or installation artist.

Come and consider the spatial narratives of Ai Weiwei, Joseph Beuys and Kara walker. Or you may be drawn to performance artists as diverse as Maria Abramovich and Joan Jonas. Perhaps these practices are tools for you to extend your conceptual processes within another performative medium? We will be experimenting with space, language, ‘liveness’ and sound - an inspiring and freeing component of the MicroMasters!

We will be thinking comparatively about the histories of performance art and art installation, as well as considering how audience reception contributes to the creative process within these art forms. This is a comprehensive introduction to performative art forms that will give beginners a strong understanding of the essential concepts.

Flexible thinking and creativity are now essential in a diversifying global job market - come and learn essential new skills, and have fun doing it!

You will be set writing exercises over the course of the module, and you will asked to keep a brief creativity journal to note how your ideas progress and how your intuition leads you into productivity. By the end of this module, you will have completed several new texts for use in a piece of installation or performance art. You will have been asked to reflect on the cultural significance of the work of the artists we analyse.

What you'll learn

Specialised knowledge of histories, forms, and traditions of writing for installation and performance art, as well as the cultural contexts of innovative practitioners and practices within installation/performance art; of contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation/performance art;
detailed understanding of key performance components within the discipline, to include: ideational sources, body, space, image, sound, text, movement, environment.
dramaturgical and script-editing skills within storytelling practices for performance art/installation
developed advanced self-management skills to include working in planned and improvisatory ways, as well as the ability to anticipate and accommodate change, ambiguity, creative risk-taking, uncertainty and unfamiliarity;

What's inside

Learning objectives

Specialised knowledge of histories, forms, and traditions of writing for installation and performance art, as well as the cultural contexts of innovative practitioners and practices within installation/performance art; of contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation/performance art;
Detailed understanding of key performance components within the discipline, to include: ideational sources, body, space, image, sound, text, movement, environment.

Dramaturgical and script-editing skills within storytelling practices for performance art/installation
Developed advanced self-management skills to include working in planned and improvisatory ways, as well as the ability to anticipate and accommodate change, ambiguity, creative risk-taking, uncertainty and unfamiliarity;

Specialised knowledge of histories, forms, and traditions of writing for installation and performance art, as well as the cultural contexts of innovative practitioners and practices within installation/performance art; of contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation/performance art;
Detailed understanding of key performance components within the discipline, to include: ideational sources, body, space, image, sound, text, movement, environment.
Dramaturgical and script-editing skills within storytelling practices for performance art/installation
Developed advanced self-management skills to include working in planned and improvisatory ways, as well as the ability to anticipate and accommodate change, ambiguity, creative risk-taking, uncertainty and unfamiliarity;

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on storytelling within performance art, providing valuable insights for aspiring performance artists

Offers a comprehensive introduction to performance art forms, establishing a strong foundation for beginners

Taught by experienced instructors, Abigail Docherty, providing learners access to industry expertise

Emphasizes creativity and flexible thinking, fostering skills essential for a changing job market

Provides writing exercises and encourages creativity journaling, supporting the development of new texts and ideas

Assumes some background knowledge of performance and installation art, which may be a limitation for complete beginners

Reviews summary

Transformative exploration of art space

According to students, this course offers a profound and transformative exploration of installation and performance art. Learners say it provides a strong conceptual foundation, encouraging them to rethink space and narrative within creative practice. The instructor's passion and insights are frequently highlighted, along with the value of the creative journal and writing exercises for developing a unique artistic voice. While many praise its academic and theoretical depth, some note a lack of practical how-to guidance, making it more suited for those seeking conceptual understanding over hands-on skills. It's a journey for artists and creatives, not vocational training.

Opinions vary on its practical 'how-to' versus theoretical focus.

"Some parts felt a bit abstract, and I wished for more practical guidance on execution..."

"I enrolled hoping for practical tips on creating installation art, but it was all very theoretical and philosophical. Too academic for my taste."

"Don't expect a step-by-step guide, but rather a profound intellectual journey."

Instructor's passion and insights are consistently praised by students.

"The instructor's passion for the subject truly shines through the lectures..."

"The instructor's insights were invaluable..."

"I appreciate how the instructor guided us through complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm."

Writing exercises and creativity journal are highly valued for development.

"The weekly exercises, especially the creativity journal, were incredibly insightful and helped me develop my unique artistic voice."

"The assignments encouraged genuine experimentation."

"The flexibility of the assignments was a huge plus, allowing me to explore my specific interests within the framework."

Provides a profound theoretical and conceptual understanding of art forms.

"This course pushed my creative boundaries and opened my eyes to new possibilities in installation and performance art."

"A solid introduction to the conceptual underpinnings of performance and installation... it certainly delivered on its promise to broaden my perspective."

"Really made me think differently about art. The balance between theory and the creative journal was effective."

Some learners found the pace slow or content highly abstract.

"Interesting topics, but I found the pace a bit slow at times."

"While it introduced many fascinating concepts, I struggled to see how to translate them directly into practice."

"My only minor critique is that sometimes the discussion prompts felt a bit repetitive."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art with these activities:

Refresh your knowledge of key performance principles

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Refresh your knowledge of key performance principles to ensure you have a strong foundation for your performance art work.

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Review notes or materials from previous courses or workshops on performance.
Attend workshops or online courses to refresh your skills.
Practice basic performance techniques to improve your physicality and vocal projection.

Read 'Performance Art: A Critical Introduction' by Erika Fischer-Lichte

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Read 'Performance Art: A Critical Introduction' to gain a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts, theories, and practices of performance art.

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Read the book and take notes on the key concepts and theories.
Discuss the book with peers and instructors to deepen your understanding.

Develop a performance art project proposal

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Develop a performance art project proposal to outline your ideas, goals, and plans for your performance art project.

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Brainstorm ideas for your performance art project.
Write a project proposal that outlines your concept, goals, and plans.
Seek feedback on your project proposal from peers and instructors.

Two other activities

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Participate in workshops and group discussions

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Participate in workshops and group discussions to share ideas, learn from others, and develop your skills.

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Attend workshops and group discussions on performance art.
Share your work with others and receive feedback.
Collaborate with others on performance art projects.

Produce a performance art piece

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Produce a performance art piece to demonstrate your understanding of the principles and techniques of performance art.

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Develop a concept and storyline for your performance.
Create a script or outline for your performance.
Rehearse and refine your performance.
Perform your piece for an audience.
Reflect on your performance and seek feedback to improve your work.

Career center

Learners who complete Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Installation Artist

As an Installation Artist, you create three-dimensional artworks that are often site-specific and immersive. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art is highly relevant to your role as it provides specialized knowledge of the histories, forms, traditions, and cultural contexts of installation art, as well as contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art. It also helps develop advanced self-management skills for working in planned and improvisatory ways.

See salaries and explore the career path for Installation Artist

Performance Artist

In your role as a Performance Artist, you create and perform live artworks that often involve elements of movement, sound, and text. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

See salaries and explore the career path for Performance Artist

Creative Director

In your role as Creative Director, you develop and execute creative concepts for various projects, including art installations and performances. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Museum Educator

As a Museum Educator, you develop and deliver educational programs and materials for museums and galleries. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Exhibition Designer

As an Exhibition Designer, you design and create exhibitions for museums, galleries, and other venues. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Art Director

As an Art Director, you oversee the visual aspects of creative projects, including art installations and performances. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Professor

As a Professor, you teach and conduct research in the field of art history, theory, and criticism. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it offers specialized knowledge of the histories, forms, traditions, and cultural contexts of installation and performance art, as well as contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of these art forms.

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Curator

In the role of Curator, you plan, organize, and manage art exhibitions, installations, and performances. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art helps build a foundation in the field by providing specialized knowledge of the histories, forms, traditions, and cultural contexts of installation and performance art, as well as contemporary critical and analytical theories of these art forms.

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Scenographer

As a Scenographer, you design and create the sets and environments for theater, film, and other live performances. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Producer

As a Producer, you oversee the planning, execution, and production of art exhibitions, installations, and performances. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Teacher

As a Teacher, you instruct students in various subjects related to art, including installation and performance art. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Video Artist

As a Video Artist, you create artworks using video as a medium. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Writer

As a Writer, you create written works, including scripts for performance art and installation art. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Art Critic

As an Art Critic, you provide informed commentary and criticism on visual art exhibitions, performances, and installations. The course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it helps build a foundation in the understanding of key performance components, dramaturgical and script-editing skills, and contemporary critical, analytical, and narrative theories of installation and performance art.

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Art historian

In your role as an Art Historian, you study and analyze the history, significance, and impact of visual art, including performance and installation art forms. Taking the course Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art may be useful as it offers specialized knowledge of the histories, forms, traditions, and cultural contexts of installation and performance art.

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