From within the body: proprioceptive art experiences in the museum

Abstract

This article introduces a new method for understanding the principlesof art and design. It combines meditation techniques, practised and conceptualized proprioceptive body experiences. Starting with a reflection on the so-called ‘sensorial turn’ and on proprioception in particular, the text offers a protocol for proprioceptive art experiences in the museum and a reflection on its theoretical foundations. The greatest advantages of the method are its inclusive nature, applicability to a broad range of artworks and art forms and its ability to overcome the mind-body dichotomy. It can be done by anyone, regardless of age or physical impairments. The approach achieves the best results in a group led by a museum guide, but individual visitors and families can use it as well, with the proper support from the museum. 

Keywords:

• embodied art education
• meditation techniques
• proprioception

Acknowledgments

Thanks to Els Van den Noortgate (physical therapist) for the inspiring conversations, and many thanks for critical reading.

Thanks to Anne Hodgkinson for translation and editing.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).