‘The imaginary texture of the real …’ critical visual studies in landscape architecture: contexts, foundations and approaches

Abstract

In this paper I examine potential for critical visual research studies in landscape architecture and related disciplines. The reasons for a neglect of imagery in research publications and the gap between landscape architectural practice and theory are considered, and the ways in which this restricts understanding are explored. I argue that visual studies can be used to bridge the practice–theory divide and enable investigations which are currently limited or absent in text-based methods and dissemination. To this end, five kinds of visual study are defined and their philosophical and methodological underpinnings and potential discussed. I conclude with an examination of the relationship between critical thinking and visual processes and the role of the viewer. The overall aim is to provide openings for future visual research studies and the development of critical visual discourses.

Keywords:

• Art and landscape
• critical visual studies
• design
• drawing
• landscape architecture
• mapping
• theory and practice
• visual thinking

Notes

Correspondence address: Catherine Dee, Department of Landscape, University of Sheffield, Floor 3, Arts Tower, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK. Email: [email protected]