Lesson 7.2: Researching Independently

Introduction

In this lesson, we will focus on a crucial phase of your independent contextual investigation: researching independently. This skill is vital as you embarks on your final research project for the module. You will learn how to find credible visual and written sources, how to use various sources effectively, build a working bibliography, and continue to organize and annotate your findings.

Learning Objectives

• Finding visual and written sources from credible places.
• Using exhibitions, catalogues, interviews, and studio visits as sources.
• Building a working bibliography as your research progresses.
• Recording, organizing, and annotating sources and images.
• Conducting independent research using credible sources.

Finding Credible Sources

When embarking on independent research, identifying credible sources is paramount. Credibility is determined by authority, accuracy, objectivity, currency, and coverage. Understanding these five criteria will help you evaluate the sources you come across everyday, including books, articles, and online resources.

Criteria for Evaluating Sources

1. Authority: Who is the author? Are they an expert in the field? Check their qualifications and affiliations.
2. Accuracy: Is the information presented accurate? Look for evidence and check if it is supported by other reliable sources.
3. Objectivity: Is the source biased or presenting information fairly? Understanding the intent behind the source will help assess its objectivity.
4. Currency: When was the information published? Ensure you are using up-to-date sources relevant to contemporary art.
5. Coverage: Does the source cover enough of the topic? Evaluate if the depth of information meets your research needs.

Example of Evaluating a Source

Imagine you find a book titled "Trends in Contemporary Art" written by an art historian with experience in modern art critiques. You would evaluate this source as follows:

• Authority: The author is a recognized art historian.
• Accuracy: Review the references and footnotes to see how well-supported the information is.
• Objectivity: Consider if the author has any apparent biases.
• Currency: Check the publication date; if it’s within the last five years, it’s likely current.
• Coverage: Does this book address the specific aspects of contemporary art you are researching? If yes, it's a credible source.

Utilizing Various Sources

Sources can vary widely, and each serves a unique role in your research. Let's explore how different types of sources can be utilized effectively.

1. Exhibitions and Catalogues

Exhibition catalogues are valuable as they often contain essays, artist statements, and images that provide context to the works featured in the exhibition. When visiting exhibitions:

• Take detailed notes on your impressions of the artwork.
• Capture how the exhibition is organized and how it relates to the themes of your project.

Example

Suppose you visit an exhibition featuring contemporary sculptures. Take notes on how the pieces interact with the space.

• Specific Artwork Detail: Mention an artist whose work intrigued you and why.
• Curatorial Choices: Reflect on the arrangement of artworks and thematic connections.

2. Interviews

Interviews with artists or curators can provide insight that might not be available in written sources. Conducting these interviews requires preparation:

• Prepare open-ended questions that allow for elaboration.
• Record the conversation (with permission) and take notes.

Example

If interviewing a local artist, asking about their creative process might yield insights into their inspirations or challenges that could connect to your research questions. Analyze the responses, focusing on themes relevant to your topic.

3. Studio Visits

Visiting an artist's studio can offer a firsthand look at their creative process, materials, and working environment:

• Pay attention to how the workspace influences the artist's work.
• Ask questions about the choice of materials and methods.

Example

During a studio visit, observe an artist using recycled materials to create artwork. You could relate this practice to sustainability in contemporary art as a key theme in your study.

Building a Working Bibliography

As you gather sources, it is critical to start building your working bibliography. This living document should change as your research evolves, ultimately helping to structure your final investigation.

Steps to Create Your Bibliography

1. Choose a Formatting Style: Decide if you will use APA, MLA, or another citation style and apply it consistently.
2. Collect Citations: As you research, gather all necessary information to create citations, including author, title, publication date, etc.
3. Organize by Theme: Group sources by themes relevant to your research to make it easier to retrieve information later.
4. Maintain Annotation: Write brief annotations for each entry to summarize key insights you may want to remember.

Example of a Bibliography Entry

• Citation: Smith, John. The Evolution of Modern Sculpture. New York: Art Press, 2022.
• Annotation: Discusses various contemporary sculptors and examines the shift from traditional materials to innovative techniques, relevant to my research on material usage in modern art.

Organizing and Annotating Sources

A well-organized research process increases efficiency and provides clarity in your investigation. Let’s break down how to maintain an organized research system.

Organizing Your Findings

• Digital Tools: Use tools like Zotero, Mendeley, or EndNote to keep track of your sources.
• Physical Organization: If you prefer paper, maintain a physical folder or binder for printed materials.

Annotating Your Sources

• While reading, jot down key themes, important quotes, and insights from each source.
• Use margin notes to document your thoughts on how specific information relates to your research questions.

Example

If you read a journal article discussing the role of social media in contemporary art, note how you could connect its arguments to your specific research question about the impact of digital platforms on artistic practices.

Conclusion

Independent research requires discipline and a structured approach to sourcing and organizing information. By evaluating sources critically, utilizing varied types of evidence, maintaining a working bibliography, and annotating your findings, you will build a strong foundation for your contextual investigation. This process sharpens your analytical skills and prepares you for degree-level studies.

Study Notes

• Ensure sources are credible by evaluating their authority, accuracy, objectivity, currency, and coverage.
• Utilize exhibitions, catalogues, interviews, and studio visits to gather diverse perspectives on your topic.
• Create a working bibliography and maintain it as a living document throughout your research process.
• Organize and annotate sources to enhance retrieval and understanding as you write your investigation.