Journalism Hub
In art and design it is advantageous to consider research more as an attitude than a function. Research does not necessarily have to be a high-end, or specialist pursuit. Nor is it only for trained experts working in the fields of education, science or R&D. It does not have to be linear or even logical - attributes rarely, if ever, associated with art. Research in art and design entails exposing yourself, embracing change, and asking uncomfortable questions.
Yet, similar to more academic research it should be rigorous and tight. It should begin with a disciplined investigation and end in knowledge—knowledge that strives to interpret twenty-first century realities. Economically, environmentally, politically, and socially so much is failing. No single discipline can possibly pretend to have an adequate explanation or solution any more. Understanding can only come about from networked knowledge stemming from a more collective fraternity, which is why research being carried out by artists and designers—although woefully underfunded and rarely recognized— must play a role. Designers and artists think radically which is needed in the face of the massive global challenges like economic rationalism, neoliberalism, climate change, migration, and poverty we all face.
It is time art and design research be more broadly recognised and incorporated in academic discourse and thinking. In culture we want the conversation to move away from what is research to how acceptance for subjective stances can be established. So while design often claims to be in search of solutions, and art exists to provide perspectives, how can research in art academies find a wider context? This will impact on how students select their topics, their processes and results, but also how nuance in what's called knowledge is positioned and fêted.
Research Café Journalism HubResearch Café is an informal seminar series where you can learn more about various research methodologies from different senior researchers at Rietveld and Sandberg. We start the series on November 16th with Gabrielle Kennedy. She will talk about 'Interviewing for facts - Journalism as a research tool and language'. The essential skill of journalism is knowing how to conduct compelling interviews, and how to engage with subjects. Every strong journalist brings a unique sensitivity to an interview which is ultimately what will create an original tone of voice and lend work a unique atmosphere.
Journalism Hub 'In Search of Money', held on 29 March 2023, was about how art and design within capitalism are driven by money. We considered if culture, like people, is inevitably cast in a role of extremes - money-making machine or oppressed victim. The symposium was hosted by journalist and researcher Gabrielle Kennedy and the speakers were: Charlotte Rohde, Gijs de Boer, Ruben Pater and Cesar Majorana.
Journalism Hub You are cordially invited to the conference 'In Search of Money' on March 29, 17:00-19:00 hrs at the Rietveld Academie.
Journalism Hub In Search of design and (crime) journalism is positioned to reveal how the expanding overlaps between art, design and journalism alter both how we hunt for facts and what stories are ultimately told.
Journalism Hub On Wednesday 22nd we welcome you to the first Sandberg Research event In Search of Lost Time, hosted by Gabrielle Kennedy. During the sympsium, invited guests Thierry Geoffroy and Toby Sterling alongside alumni David Womack, Johan Deletang, Andrea Gonzalez, Juliette Lépineau, Simpson Tse and Jelia Veldeman will present their research in order to explore the meaning of time in art and journalism. The symposium takes place at Theory Stairs at 4pm.
Journalism Hub Publication IN/Search RE/Search, edited by Gabrielle Kennedy, designed by Haller Brunm and published by Valiz with Gerrit Rietveld Academie / Sandberg Instituut, Amsterdam, features works by various Sandberg & Rietveld alumni and students. The publication explores how solid research skills are crucial for artists and designers if the cultural sector is to be able to contribute viable alternative ways of thinking to counter the dangerous and pervasive neoliberal forces influencing the globe.