Why has Live Art proved to be a potent platform and generative site for artists working within disability art practices? by Rachael Townsend.

Abstract

The focus of this research report will discuss and question why Live Art has offered artistsʼ working within disability art practices a site to visually raise issues surrounding disability. The report will specifically discuss and investigate recent live events and the artists who have utilised this medium to explore the notion of an ʻinvisible disability.ʼ

This investigation begins by discussing the term ʻLive Artʼ and how agencies have recently embarked on creating live events, providing these artists a platform where they are to embrace and grasp the use of this medium, as well as a site where they are able to showcase their ideas through the use of their bodies.

The report continues further by discussing the Live Event Caution and how it activated the viewers, provoking, promoting and intervening the issues and ideas explored in the performance into public life.

The following chapter delves deeper into disability and how the use of Live Art aids artists when attempting to question and challenge viewer perception, with specific focus to my art practice along with supportive material and primary research from Art Activist Liz Crow.

The investigation concludes by addressing how Live Art creates a site where issues are not just simply raised, they are also questioned. This assertion is supported through the research and findings that the physical use of the body generates an immediate unity and connection between the performer and viewer, manifesting into creating an open dialogue that is ripe for interpretation, interruption and negotiation.

Full downloadable PDF attached.