Critical Practice: Philosophy and Creativity

Critical Practice by Martin McQuillan explores the relationship between theory and practice in the creative arts, considering the emergence of a cultural space where philosophy, theory, history, and practice are indistinguishable. He examines the work of writers and thinkers who cross the divide, such as Alain Badiou and Terry Eagleton, and the longer tradition of theory-writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book is available as open access through the Bloomsbury Open Access program and can be accessed on www.bloomsburycollections.com. In his book, Critical Practice, Martin McQuillan delves into a critical examination of the concept of practice-led research. He expands beyond the recent terminology of research management to explore the intriguing question of the emergence of a cultural space where philosophy, theory, history, and practice blend seamlessly. McQuillan examines the works of various writers and thinkers who straddle the boundary between theoretical and creative practice, such as Alain Badiou and Terry Eagleton, as well as the longer tradition of theory writing exemplified by figures like Hélène Cixous, Roland Barthes, and Louis Althusser. His objective is to unravel the contemporary implications of a relationship that has been a subject of debate throughout the long history of philosophy, spanning from Plato's dialogues to Derrida's Envois.

McQuillan's exploration is divided into three distinct chapters. The first chapter, titled "Practice as Research," delves into the historical roots of practice-led research and its evolution in contemporary art and design. He discusses the influence of artists like John Cage, who challenged traditional notions of artistic practice, and the rise of interdisciplinary practices that blur the boundaries between different fields. The second chapter, titled "Practice as Theory," explores the relationship between practice and theory in the creative arts. McQuillan examines the ways in which artists and thinkers have used their practices as a means of generating new ideas and developing theoretical frameworks. He discusses the concept of "practice-based knowledge" and the ways in which it can challenge traditional academic hierarchies. The third chapter, titled "Practice as History," examines the role of practice in shaping historical narratives and cultural identities. McQuillan discusses the ways in which artists and activists have used their practices to challenge dominant ideologies and promote social change. He also explores the ways in which practices can be preserved and archived for future generations.

Throughout the book, McQuillan employs a critical and interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from philosophy, art history, cultural studies, and other fields. He challenges traditional notions of research and scholarship and encourages readers to think beyond the boundaries of their disciplines. Critical Practice is a valuable resource for artists, researchers, and anyone interested in the intersection of theory, practice, and creativity. It offers a fresh perspective on the role of practice in the creative arts and provides a wealth of insights and ideas for those seeking to expand their understanding of the field.

Weight: 398g
Dimension: 160 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781780930343