A1 Journal article (refereed)
A detour in research through the gorge : Approaching human–nature connections with site-specific performance (2023)

Niemelä, R., Laulumaa, A.-M., Tupala, A.-K., & Raatikainen, K. J. (2023). A detour in research through the gorge : Approaching human–nature connections with site-specific performance. Applied Theatre Research, 11(1), 71-92. https://doi.org/10.1386/atr_00077_1

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Niemelä, Riikka; Laulumaa, Anna-Mari; Tupala, Anna-Kaisa; Raatikainen, Kaisa J.

Journal or series: Applied Theatre Research

ISSN: 2049-3010

eISSN: 2049-3029

Publication year: 2023

Publication date: 01/06/2023

Volume: 11

Issue number: 1

Pages range: 71-92

Publisher: Intellect

Publication country: United Kingdom

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1386/atr_00077_1

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access: 

Abstract

This article examines the eligibility of a theatre-based method in transdisciplinary research into human–nature connectedness. We elaborate on a need to refine scientific tools with creative means of art to find novel ways to explore dimensions of human–nature relations unobtainable with conventional scientific methods. Over the past few decades, arts-based research (ABR) methods have gained more popularity in academic research as they offer opportunities to approach aspects previously neglected in science, such as embodied and sensory experience. In this article, we describe the study accomplished in the form of site-specific performance at a nature conservation area combined with qualitative research inquiry focusing on participants’ ideas and experiences of nature. We reflect on the benefits of combining art and science when aiming at a better understanding of the range of variegated ideas and conceptualizations behind human behaviour, and at gaining knowledge of topics that are complex and contradictory.

Keywords: arts-based methods; relation to nature; human being; nature; posthumanism; theatre (art forms); site-specific art; interdisciplinary research; research methods

Free keywords: arts-based research; human–nature relations; post-humanism; site-specific performance; transdisciplinary research

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

VIRTA submission year: 2023

JUFO rating: 2