Julia Schuster

Dissertation (Distinction): Within (inside something, internally, inwardly, Late Old English withinnan ‘on the inside’) 

Within is used here as a metaphor to differentiate our thinking body from the intellect of our mind, while at the same time by exploring the notion of awareness within our body. Drawing on the study of phenomenology the paper states that the body’s implicit knowledge, known intuitively and due to its subjective nature, deserves a call to attention as it is ultimately core to our human experience.

I drew my research and the inspiration from contemporary dance workshops, which lead to this final project where I use film, spoken words and various forms of object making.

By using repetitive and rhythmic movements I translate my body’s thoughts into clay. In time these actions solidify the aesthetic of natural motion in ceramic objects. By performing caressing and massaging gestures I enter an intimate and sensual relationship with the material. I caress the clay and it caresses me, making for a two-way contact. This encounter develops a relationship with the object that puts touch at the very core. After all, touch is also the very core of being human.

All my objects, installations and performances invite for contemplation.