Percieving Experience:Accounting for the Role of the Audience in the Construction of Pervasive and Locative Artworks

Abstract

This practice-led study examines the role of audiences in pervasive and locative artworks. It
critically examines claims made for the ability of pervasive and locative artworks to provide
audiences with new, heightened and engaging experiences. It addresses the way in which the
role of the audience is shaped by both the artwork and by the audience’s perception of their
experience.

A contextual survey of the field identifies the intention to actively engage audiences as central
to the character of the pervasive and locative artwork. This engagement is commonly
described using taxonomies of interaction and supported by theories of democracy and
inclusion in the arts. The survey calls into question any inherent ability of pervasive and
locative artworks, or the technologies they employ, to provide audiences with engaging
experiences.

Several methodologies are critically evaluated including: ethnography, Creative Audience
Studies and practice-led case studies. A methodological approach is devised which aims to
account for the role of the audience as it is conceived of by the artist, modelled in the artwork
and experienced by the audience. This involves the construction of artworks as critical models
of the role of the audience, accompanied by a set of questions put to the audience.

The development of five artworks is described, each examining aspects affecting the
audience’s role. Interviews with the audiences of two artworks support a new understanding
of the role of the audience that acknowledges the vital role of the audience’s own
understanding of the nature of the experience.

This study proposes a new understanding of audiences that will be of interest to practitioners
in the field of pervasive and locative arts as well as those concerned with creating engaging
experiences for the audiences of interactive systems.

For a copy of the full thesis text please email me.

Email: chris at christopherfry dot com