Short Course 008 - Bedspace
Introduction
Welcome to Short Course 008 - Bedspace
In this short course, we will explore the creative and psychic labour done in the bedroom that can facilitate a resurgence of the authentic creative self.
Throughout this short course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of the bedspace on our subconscious and in turn our creative practices. We will explore the bed space as a site for knowledge production, investigating the intersection of the virtual and physical spaces that exist within it.
Before you begin, download your Working Document
Watch a short video of Artist and academic, Nouf Alhimiary, introducing her work.
Module 1: Theory
1.1 The impact of the bedroom on the subconscious
Watch a video of Nouf Alhimiary discussing the impact of the bedroom on the subconscious.
The bedroom is more than just a place for rest; it is a sanctuary where we engage in various forms of psychic and creative labour, often without even realising it. From the routines we have, arrangement of furniture, or our dreams, every aspect of our space plays a role in shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.
Throughout history, artists, writers, and thinkers have recognised the significance of the bedroom as a space for introspection, inspiration, and innovation. By understanding how our bedspace impacts our subconscious, we can unlock new avenues for creative expression and personal growth.
Your Turn
Q1. Observing the tangible
How does your bedspace make you feel?
Working Document for details.
What routines or rituals do you have within this space?
Working Document for details.
Are there any specific objects or symbols that hold meaning to you?
Working Document for details.
Take notes as needed in exercise 1.1 in your Working Document.
Module 1: Theory (cont.)
1.2 Approaches to dream analysis
Watch a video of Nouf Alhimiary highlighting a few of the various methods of dream analysis.
In our journey to comprehend the intricacies of our bedspace, we often encounter elements beyond our direct control, most notably dreams. Dreams serve as windows into the subconscious mind, offering glimpses of our deepest desires, fears, and unresolved conflicts. Below are several approaches to dream analysis.
Psychoanalytic Approach (Sigmund Freud)
Freud believed dreams were expressions of unconscious desires and repressed thoughts.
Manifest Content
This refers to the literal, apparent, or surface-level elements of a dream. It's what the dreamer remembers upon waking up.
If a person dreams about flying over a city, the manifest content includes the visual imagery of flying, the city, and any specific details experienced during the dream.
Latent Content
This represents the hidden, symbolic, or underlying meanings of the dream. It goes beyond the explicit details and involves the unconscious thoughts, desires, and emotions that are expressed symbolically in the dream.
Using the same dream about flying, the latent content might involve the desire for freedom, a wish to escape from constraints, or a metaphorical representation of the dreamer's aspirations and emotions.
Analytical Psychology Approach (Carl Jung)
Jung emphasised the collective unconscious and archetypes while dreams provide insights into the integration of different aspects of the self.
An encounter with a wise old figure in a dream represents inner wisdom.
Cognitive Approach
Focuses on how cognitive processes influence dream content; exploring the role of memory, emotions, and problem-solving.
Dreaming about a recent stressful event as the brain processes emotion.
Activation-Synthesis Theory (Hobson and McCarley)
Proposes dreams result from random neural activity in the brainstem. The brain attempts to synthesise random firings into a coherent narrative.
A dream with seemingly unrelated scenes stitch together.
Transpersonal or Spiritual Approach
The view that dreams are a means of connecting with a higher consciousness; emphasising the symbolic and transformative nature of dreams.
Dreaming of a journey to a celestial realm or encounter with a guiding figure.
Cultural and Symbolic Approaches
Considers the cultural and symbolic contexts of dream symbols, interpretations vary based on personal and cultural backgrounds.
A snake symbolises transformation in some cultures, while it may represent danger in others.
Problem-Solving Approach
Suggests dreams serve a problem-solving function; helping individuals to process and find solutions to challenges.
Dreaming of overcoming obstacles or finding solutions to a work problem.
Your Turn
Q2. Observing the intangible
Recall a dream you have had
Working Document for details.
Choose an approach from the above
Working Document for details.
Journal your thoughts
Working Document for details.
Take notes as needed in exercise 1.2 in your Working Document.
Module 2: Practical
2.1 How can we facilitate play?
Watch a video of Nouf Alhimiary discussing ways we can access the prima materia of the bedspace through play.
Play, often associated with childhood and dismissed as frivolous in adulthood, holds profound transformative potential. It allows us to engage with our environment in a spontaneous, uninhibited manner, fostering creativity, curiosity, and intuition. By embracing playfulness, we can uncover new insights and perspectives within our bedspace without the pressure of predefined outcomes.
Understanding Play
Play is a fundamental aspect of human development and expression, it encompasses spontaneity, imagination, and non-linearity, providing a space for exploration and discovery free from constraints.
Exploring Safe Play
Creating a safe and supportive environment is essential for facilitating play in the bedspace. By emphasising openness and curiosity, free from self-doubt or inhibition, you can embrace the experience fully and delve into the depths of your imagination.
Embracing Experimental Play
Experimental play invites you to explore the sensory landscape of your bedspace, from tactile sensations to auditory stimuli, you can immerse yourself fully in the present moment, discovering new insights and perspectives along the way.
Challenging Societal Norms
Society often relegates play to childhood, viewing it as an unproductive pursuit in adulthood. However, challenging these norms is crucial in recognising the value of play as a catalyst for self-discovery and personal growth.
Your Turn
Q3. Playlist making as an avenue for play
Create a playlist that can serve as a dream journal
Working Document for details.
Take notes as needed in exercise 2.1 in your Working Document.
Congratulations!
You have now successfully learned:
The impact of the bedspace on our subconscious
How to access elements of your subconscious
The value of facilitating play