In Between I and Other(s): The Queer Functions of Art-Making for the Ashamed

Abstract

For the repressed, autobiographical art-making is more than a tool of catharsis, but a way of cataloging life experience, (re)constructing identity and understanding Others. The opportunity to produce socially engaged works of art may not always be available for the ashamed, they may not yet have the ability to produce works beyond the self-expressive. Through collaboration, in academic, creative and cultural spaces, through exchange within community founded in care and non-abusive pedagogical support, self-concerned artists may begin to produce artwork that creates actual social change, reifies the symbolic and - they may even retire artistic applications concerned namely with their character. A self-conscious arts practice is a practice of self-preservation. When these defenses are no longer needed, the artist becomes available for abounding creative possibilities.

In this thesis paper, I detail the conceptual underpinnings, performative processes and presentation of my thesis work through autobiography.

It is highly encouraged to interact with the thesis paper as a Google Doc, it includes links to supportive media, gifs and may also be helpful in annotating the work. Here is a link to this document:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nWj3-I5KrgMFpj4_trwh40rQ6P5qfqU5Axoi6Flz30k/edit