When two potential forces interact:The Performance and the Dramatic
The creation or moderation of spatial dynamics, (Praxischematics) the work of Makers- a term I use for all performance makers and material doers, In galleries, in Theatres, in gutters, on pavements, in the clouds, in the stars or wherever there is an articulated expression to be receptively encountered and enjoyed: dispensing wit
h the needless and much maligned word "creative" which is used as an exclusory device, usually but not exclusively by "uncreative tyrants", Herein Performers and Installation artists many of whom are studying but not necessarily of an orthodox discipline and of artists who are following their own praxis. Some technique and technology observations are included. Defining Scenography: (Wikipedia) Scenography relates to the study and practice of design for performance
Contents
1 Usage
2 Etymology and Cultural Interpretations
3 References
4 Selected Bibliography
5 Journals
6 External links
7 References Usage
Whilst also aligned with the professional practice of the scenographer, it is important to distinguish the individual elements that comprise the 'design' of a performance event (such as light, environment, costume, etc.) from the term 'scenography' which is as an artistic perspective concerning the visual, experiential and spatial composition of performance. Influenced by the work of Modernist pioneers Adolphe Appia and Edward Gordon Craig, scenography proposes that design practices within performance are considered an equal partner, alongside other elements such as literary texts and performance technique, within the construction and reception of meaning. The practice of scenography is thereby a holistic approach to the composition of performance and can be applied to the design or curation of events within, and outside, of the conventional theatre environment. Pamela Howard enquires in her book What is Scenography?:however, this publication and this question have been somewhat neutralised by being overtaken by real developments in the application of theoretical scenography. She tells us:
"Scenography is the seamless synthesis of space, text, research, art, actors, directors and spectators that contributes to an original creation." Joslin McKinney and Philip Butterworth expand upon this to suggest that:
"Scenography is not simply concerned with creating and presenting images to an audience; it is concerned with audience reception and engagement. It is a sensory as well as an intellectual experience, emotional as well as rational." Etymology and Cultural Interpretations
The term scenography is of Greek origin (skēnē, meaning 'stage or scene building'; grapho, meaning 'to describe') originally detailed within Aristotle's Poetics as 'skenographia'. Nevertheless, within continental Europe the term has been closely aligned with the professional practice of scénographie and is synonymous with the English language term 'theatre design'. More recently, the term has been used in museography with regards the curation of museum exhibits.
