Praxis and the reflexive creative practitioner

Abstract

Focussing on visual arts, the article proposes the adoption of hybridized research methods into the creative process, drawing on the development of praxis based research into validity claims in the nursing profession. Building on Habermas's ideas of a performative attitude in inter-subjective communication and Giddens' distinction between self-actualization and narcissism, it is suggested that research into creative self expression can avoid claims of narcissism if it is located in the social realm through the adoption of reflexive and performative research methods.

Keywords:

• Praxis
• reflexivity
• validity claims
• visual art
• research methods
• creative arts