Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book turns to philosophy, specifically to aesthetics and epistemology, to address the concerns and to explore the possibilities within artistic research. It argues that much of the antipathy is the product of dualistic thinking and explains Kant's account of the 'shaping' role of concepts, and its relevance to artistic research. The book focuses on the nature of writing and its effect on art as research. It examines the idea that working artistically with materials can generate novelty through metaphor. The book also argues on the strength of their theories, that the antagonism between art and research can be rethought as a productive relationship. It reviews the history of aesthetics and epistemology to identify the principal theories responsible for defining art and knowledge as opposites.