Topic outline

  • TILA-LUKUPIIRI / SPACE READING CIRCLE

    (aka Space in Context) 2020–2021

    Sessions one a month, with critical readings and peer discussions.


    Place and time:

    2020–2021

    Mon 07.09.20

    13:15-15:00

    online / via Zoom

    Mon 12.10.20

    13:15-15:00

    online

    Mon 09.11.20

    13:15-15:00

    online

    Mon 14.12.20

    15:30-17:15 (HUOM. AIKA!)

    online

    Mon 11.01.21

    13:15-15:00

    R015/113

    Mon 22.02.21

    13:15-15:00

    R015/113

    Mon 19.04.21

    13:15-15:00

    R015/113

    Mon 17.05.21

    13:15-15:00

    R015/113


    Workload: 2 cr. (1 cr per autumn, 1 cr per spring)
    Reading max 25 h, meetings and discussions 10 h, feedback 2–5 h

    Learning Outcomes: The participants gain an understanding of a selection of central texts, references and concepts concerning space, site and situation, and a general understanding of the plurality of space. Each year there is a specific focus around a selected theme, as in 2020-2021 reading circle the texts are selected around the theme of 'equality & space'. Not all texts are plain-directly dealing the 'yearly theme'. For example in 2020-2021, the readings are connected to a larger set of ideas where power structures, practices of space, and debates and tendencies in society intertwine in multiple ways.

    The students gain understanding of conceptions of space and spatial practices so that the are better able to apply, analyse and develop new perspectives in their artistic practice and experimental activities in fields where space and spatial practices bear a central/specific role. We navigate through a selection of texts that approach space and place. The connections between the reading material and the participants’ ongoing artistic thinking/projects are discussed further in relation to the practices of spatial and performing arts.

    Working method: The students read 1-2 texts specifically selected for each session, to be further discussed collectively. The students take turns in preparing the texts for the joint debate (further instructions for this are given on the first session!).

    In year 2020–2021 we will read an interdisciplinary set of texts linked to the theme of 'equal space', linked to the aim of normalising anti-racist strategies and work as part of the operation of art schools, institutions, organisations, communities and networks in Finland. We approach the notion of anti-racism e.g. through the conception of intersectionality, “which includes not only race, but ethnicity, gender, class, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and disability.” (From the “Call for action letter aimed to Art Schools and Art Organisations”, written and sent to, among others, Aalto University and UNIARTS Helsinki in Spring 2020 in the purpose of including anti-racist strategies as more substantial part of the studies/study structures.) 

    The set of texts are chosen in such way that they are connected to the interlinked relations between space/spatial aspects and the aim of enhancing inclusive and emancipatory spatial practices in arts, and in the society at large.

    In the meetings/sessions and assignments related to the course, we will attempt to answer questions such as:

    What kinds of spatial practices of conceptions are needed in order to increase equality, inclusiveness and/or safety, and on the other hand: what kinds of spatial practices can decrease safety, equality and/or inclusiveness?


    Reading materials/texts to read are to be found approximately *2 weeks prior to each session* in the "Materials" section (see the left columns on the side of the MyCourses page)


    Please note:

    Due to the pandemic, during the autumn term 2020 the reading circle runs via online (virtual) sessions, such as Zoom meetings.

    The first session in on Monday 7.9. at 13:15–15:00, and Maiju will send a Zoom link to each participant.


    NÄHDÄÄN! / SEE YOU!

    Teacher:

    maiju.loukola@aalto.fi (autumn 2020 term)

    heini.kiamiri@aalto.fi (spring 2021 term)