Short Course - Working with Landscape
Introduction
Welcome to Short Course - Working with Landscape
In this short course, we will explore concepts of landscape, identity, migration, and dislocation to allow for an understanding of how personal experiences shape one's perception of landscapes, particularly within the context of British landscapes.
Throughout this short course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the creative intersections of image-making and creative writing, driven by the inspiration of landscapes, and how they interact with personal archives. Moreover, we will venture into the fascinating dynamics of migration and dislocation, understanding how these factors influence our perception of the landscapes we encounter.
Before you begin, download your Working Document
Watch a short video of multidisciplinary artist and producer, Nikta Mohammadi, explaining her main incentives behind the focus of landscape in her work.
Module 1: Theory
1.1 Key Concepts & Discussion
Watch a video of Nikta Mohammadi discussing the ways in which we perceive landscape.
Cultural Construct of Landscape
Landscape isn't a static backdrop; it's a canvas woven with threads of culture, history, and personal perception. As we unpack this concept, we'll uncover how our surroundings bear the marks of time, society, and our unique perspectives. Each landscape tells stories of the past and present, reflecting the tapestry of human experiences.
Landscape as a Space of Memory
Imagine landscapes as reservoirs of memory, capturing moments in time with every movement. This concept invites us to consider how our memories intertwine with physical surroundings, creating a symphony of emotions and connections. Through exploration, we'll unveil how landscapes become vessels of cherished recollections.
Landscape as a Canvas for Storytelling
Landscape serves not only as a visual feast but as a platform for narratives waiting to unfold. Like a blank page, each landscape invites us to etch our stories upon it. By understanding this concept, we'll learn how to weave emotions, experiences, and cultural nuances into the very fabric of the landscapes we encounter.
Migration and Dislocation in Landscape Perception
Migration and dislocation alter our lens, transforming the way we perceive and connect with landscapes. As we journey through this concept, we'll explore how artists and writers translate the complexities of migration into their work, giving voice to the unspoken stories carried within landscapes.
Your Turn
Take some time to think about the above and select an image you already have that portrays a landscape you feel personally connected to.
Q1. Write 3 words to describe the memories that are associated with this landscape image
See Working Document for details.
Q2. How do the colours in the image make you feel?
See Working Document for details.
Q3. How does this landscape image intersect with your personal identity?
See Working Document for details.
Q5. What emotions do you experience when revisiting this image?
See Working Document for details.
Answer the above questions in your downloaded Working Document.
Module 1: Theory (cont.)
1.2 Artist References
Watch a video of Nikta Mohammadi highlighting the artists who have inspired her practice.
J.M.W. Turner
Known for his emotive landscapes, Turner employs light, colour, and composition to convey atmosphere and sentiment, often evoking the sublime in nature.
Joan Jonas
A pioneer in performance art, Jonas explores the intersection of body, space, and imagination through multimedia installations, redefining our perception of landscapes.
Claude Cahun
Through self-portraits set against symbolic landscapes, Cahun challenges gender norms and delves into identity, layering personal narratives onto traditional landscape backdrops.
Ingrid Pollard
Investigating identity and heritage, Pollard combines photography with text to create multi-dimensional narratives within urban landscapes, where culture and place converge.
Andrei Tarkovsky
In the realm of cinema, Tarkovsky's landscapes serve as metaphors, reflecting characters' inner landscapes and emotions through poetic visuals.
Your Turn
Take some time to think about the above, then research the works of the following artists:
Now, choose one of the artists and;
1. Find an artwork of theirs that prominently features a landscape.
2. Observe the artwork closely. Pay attention to the visual elements, mood, and emotions it
conveys.
Then, consider the following questions and note down your observations:
How does the artist interpret and portray the landscape?
What emotions or themes are evoked by the artwork?
How does the artwork reflect the artist's unique style and perspective?
What artistic techniques, such as colour, composition, and symbolism, contribute to the overall impact?
Reflective Analysis
Write a brief analysis using your notes of the chosen artwork (100 - 150 words).
Respond to the above question in your downloaded Working Document.
Module 2: Practical
2.1 Using Personal Archives
This module focuses on the art of authentic storytelling. By pairing your images with the simple and freeing technique of free writing, you'll uncover narratives that reflect who you are and where you've been. This process will help you turn memories into heartfelt stories, letting your landscapes speak for themselves.
Gather Your Personal Archive
Collect old photographs or images from your personal archive that depict landscapes. These could be images from your travels, family outings, or everyday scenes.
Select Three Landscape Images
Choose three images that resonate with you on different levels – emotionally, culturally, or through personal memories.
Free Writing Exploration
For each selected image, set a timer for 3 minutes.
Observe the image closely and let your thoughts flow freely.
Write down your immediate impressions, memories, emotions, or any stories that come to mind. Do not worry about grammar or structure; just let your thoughts flow.
Tip: When you are free writing, try to keep the pen in motion at all times to avoid overthinking, thus allowing yourself to capture unfiltered thoughts :)
Narrative Crafting
Review your free writing for each image.
Identify recurring themes, emotions, or narratives that emerge from your writing.
Develop Landscape Stories
Use your free writing as a foundation to craft concise landscape stories for each image. Aim for about 150 - 200 words for each story.
Weave in the emotions, memories, or cultural elements that surfaced during the free writing process.
Take notes as needed in exercise 2.1 in your Working Document.
Congratulations!
You have now successfully learned:
How landscapes hold diverse meanings, influenced by personal identity and cultural perspectives.
The significance of emotions and memories in shaping landscape storytelling.
How to practically apply insights by crafting landscape stories through image-making and creative writing.