Words Interlacing Works: An Investigation of Collaborative Interdisciplinary Endeavors

Over the course of my undergraduate experience at The Ohio State University, I have become increasingly interested in investigating the depth of human expression and relation found within art forms. My dual studies in English and Dance as well as my extracurricular activities have exposed me to many contrasting viewpoints and approaches to artistic endeavors. It is my belief that the wide range of ways we express ourselves in various cultures and disciplines are more interrelated than may be apparent at first glance. However, it has been my experience that often the segregating terminologies (i.e. professional jargon) that align with specific forms prevent open dialogue across disciplines. To deconstruct these language barriers, I spent a great deal time during my third year of undergraduate studies and summer travels to develop and refine a broad set of shared terminology applicable when looking at the integral compositional elements embedded in every art form. This involved researching literature on various artistic disciplines, conversing with artists, and logging personal artistic experiences here and abroad. This year, I brought together artists from various disciples to create a series of collaborative projects. My goal was to determine the practicality of my terminology in such settings. I discovered that my four overarching categories — Purpose, Method, Theme, and Structure — were well understood by all collaborators. That affirmation aside, I was astounded by the usefulness of the conversation that the introduction to the terminology made necessary. Through providing structure to the beginning discussions about the work we would make together, contributing artists were able to know their role, propose ideas, and ask questions without trepidation. I hope that my research into collaborative processes and supporting vocabulary will help to alleviate the strained miscommunication that can inhibit interdisciplinary artistic connection. This research will fuel my own future endeavors and hopefully help to establish a new approach to collaborative process.No embargoAcademic Major: Danc