Art as a function of interoception

Abstract

This thesis proceeds from two defining standpoints – to make work without intention or planning, and to focus this on process as one reflective of interoceptive experience. Art is reflective first and foremost as an expression of the quality of the artist’s interior (interoceptive) experience, regardless of subject matter, training, medium or style. Resultantly, I came to the conclusion that the most logical and beneficial way to demonstrate my thesis would be to change the quality of my work not through technical, stylistic or subject matter changes, but rather, through interoceptive change. From my perspective, the outcome, the material result, is the production of work that may be of lesser artistic value, but that reflects an improved interoceptive experience, one of greater calm, tranquility and contentment.