The Breath of Memory

This semester, we will explore the ephemeral and enduring nature of memory through artistic practice. Over the course of our time together, we will engage in an investigation of how memory shapes our identities, narratives, and perceptions. This inquiry will culminate in the creation of an end of semester work that embodies our discoveries and reflections.

In our exploration of memory throughout this course, we will delve into the fragility and fluidity of recall. Memory is not a fixed entity; rather, it often comes with inherent distortions, gaps, and reconstructions that can alter our understanding of past experiences and how memory can simultaneously hold beauty and loss. We will be encouraged to consider how our recollections are shaped by the rhythms and textures of our lives. We’ll discuss the tension between personal and collective memory, investigating how individual experiences interweave with shared cultural narratives to shape our understanding of the world around us. Toni Morrison, in „Beloved,“ emphasizes the haunting nature of memory and its impact on identity, suggesting that the past is never truly past but a living, breathing part of who we are. Her exploration of memory as a means of both pain and healing will guide our conversations.

Additionally, we’ll investigate the materiality of memory, focusing on how different media and artistic processes can evoke and embody our recollections in powerful and meaningful ways. The tactile quality of materials can alter our perceptions, prompting emotional responses that foster a deeper connection with our memories. Our bodies will take center stage in this exploration, serving as vital sites of memory where we will reflect on the somatic and sensory aspects of remembering. Emphasizes the ways in which the body holds memory and experience, urging us to acknowledge how our identities and lived experiences are inscribed into our physical selves.

Furthermore, we’ll take a closer look at the significance of archiving and ephemeral moments, considering how objects, documents, and fleeting experiences can preserve and trigger memories in profound ways. Objects can serve as tangible links to our past; as James Baldwin points out in „The Fire Next Time,“ the interplay between personal identity and collective history can deeply influence our understanding of self. Finally, we’ll contemplate the relationships between specific places and our remembered experiences, exploring how geography intersects with memory to create deeper connections in our artistic practice. Baldwin notes in his essays that “the past is always present,” underscoring how our environments can carry the weight of memory, shaping the narratives we construct about ourselves.