Description

Adopting the logic of a seismograph, improvisation can be understood as a methodology for gaining a deeper understanding of the manifold layers shaping communication and creativity. Improvisation is not only a practice for performative contexts but a method through which underlying assumptions, artistic attitudes and cultural strata can surface uninhibitedly. Difference is experienced in and through action.

Different ways of working, due to disciplinary backgrounds, cultural backgrounds or otherwise, can playfully co-operate through the artistic practice of improvisation. Cultural artefacts – sounds, words, images, bodies – migrate through the network and show how they might transform at its different nodes. Effects and affects.

These improvised encounters will also involve various mediating technologies: cameras, screens, microphones, loudspeakers, as well as the jitter and glitches of capricious connective streams travelling through the internet. Being here and there at the same time, reacting to each other within the network and reminding ourselves: “In improvisation, there are no mistakes” (Miles Davis). Let’s play!

Learning Outcomes / Competences

• Using improvisation as a tool for (transcultural) exchange
• Working remotely and making the restrictions of the online format artistically productive
• Introduction to streaming technologies also applicable to individual work

Dates

11 – 21 August 2021

Participants

The Summer School offers places to 8–12 students at each location (Kyoto, Singapore, Zurich). The programme is open to students from a wide range of arts and design disciplines, including performing arts, film, music, fine arts, media arts, design, and art education.

Admission Criteria and Requirements

• Proficient in English
• Level: BA, MA, MPhil, PhD
• Disciplines: all arts and design disciplines

Application Documents

• Brief statement (max 1 page): What is your background? What are your interests? What perspectives would you bring to the workshop? What do you expect from the workshop?
• Portfolio: A work sample related to the aims and contents of the Summer School (pdf, video or sound file)

Credits

Awarded as stipulated by the home institution

Student Costs

• No course fee for students from Shared Campus partner institutions
• No costs for local students in Kyoto, Singapore, Zurich
• Costs for all other students travelling to one of the three locations:
• Accommodation arrangements to be made in agreement with the home institution.
• Travel expenses to/in one of the locations
• Insurance fees
• Visa fees (wherever applicable): Tourist visa

Application Process

• Submission deadline: 30 APRIL 2021
• Online application (incl. submission of documents):
• Participants will be selected by the responsible faculty
• Final confirmation of participation: MID MAY 2021