Making Under the Influence: Unpacking motives behind making - Day 2

This symposium will explore the nature of creative influence on studio-based making. Influence can be debated as inspiration, motivation, encouragement, imitation, homage, plagiarism and coincidence, but as all makers know we cannot help responding to our daily environment or to the broader culture in which we live. All who practice within the fields of art, craft and design create work with considered choices, which are guided by a defined brief, either self-determined or pre-determined, and underpinned by intuitive, speculative and less quantifiable hunches. With the intention of unpacking the nuances of this layered subject, we have invited a select group of makers to critically discuss their sources of contextual influence in their practice. Our international line-up showcases an array of craft and design disciplines, with experiences ranging from early-career to established and highly revered practitioners. As is evident not only amongst our speakers but also across the broader spectrum of studio-based practice, creative influences are undeniably diverse and idiosyncratic. That said, a common thread persists throughout; after all, makers respond to something. For instance, some makers will draw on precursors or historical influences; while some makers, in their process of making, will romanticise the significance of their influences. These influences can be directly visible within the fabric of works, used to make a direct personal, political or social comment. Or alternatively, they can be subtly interwoven, hidden in a narrative waiting to be discovered. Whatever the influences are, and considering we live in a culture obsessed with sampling and appropriation, it makes sense to understand how they drive our creative choices. ‪Discussing the broader parameters of the topic of influence, Dr. Susan Cohn (herself an internationally regarded craftsperson, designer and curator) will open the symposium and deliver the keynote address on the evening of Thursday 28 April. On the following day, two groups of presentations will explore thematically related aspects of influence, ending with a chaired panel discussion and a Q&A session. Day 1: Thursday 28 April - at the School of Art Lecture Theatre 6.00pm: Keynote address by Dr. Susan Cohn Day 2: Friday 29 April - at the Level 1 lecture theatre, Sir Roland Wilson building 9.30am - 12.30pm: ‘Internal Motivations’ Speakers include Dr Jeffrey Sarmiento (USA/UK), Mariana Ortega (AUS/Mexico), Simon Cottrell (AUS), Janet DeBoos (AUS) 1.30 - 4.30pm ‘External Influences’ Speakers include Wendy Maruyama (USA), Dr Karlyn Sutherland (UK), Dr Eleni Kalantidou (AUS)