Creating through the art of another: Exploring extreme ocean events via "Exquisite Corpse"
Abstract
\cite{a2021,Jung_2021}\cite{Jung_2022,r2014}\cite{a2022}Among the many benefits of ArtScience collaborations are the opportunities afforded to approach issues through the eyes of another. This might mean looking through a different disciplinary lens, engaging with unfamiliar individuals or communities, or deliberately seeking to open up intellectually and emotionally by diving into new perspectives. Through the universal language of art we illustrate such a process, using the "Exquisite Corpse" method to highlight different ways of interpreting extreme ocean events among an interdisciplinary group of artists and scientists. Over a six-week period, participants created series of three artworks inspired by a compilation of scientific imagery, data and news clips relating to the Hunga Tonga underwater volcano eruption in Tonga, 20 December 2021. At the end of each two week period, participants exchanged individual artworks, which served as inspirational seeds for subsequent interpretive creations, and thereby engaging participants in a process of deep reflection on one another's perspectives without need for translation between artforms. When each participant had completed three artworks, all participants met to view, discuss and celebrate the full collection. The wide variety of narrative and artistic approaches explored showcases the multiplicity of approaches for interpreting and connecting to this scientific topic. The various series of artworks that build on one another demonstrate how creating as a response to the art of another makes space for exploration of new ideas and ways of thinking in a fun and emotionally engaging way. They also demonstrate the importance of giving space to various narratives of connection, creating a plurality of stories, perspectives and insights. The "Exquisite Corpse" approach is a pathway to transdisciplinary collaboration that creates a holding space for the coexistence of multiple ways of observing, interpreting, understanding and relating that is greater than the sum of its parts.