Research Abstract

W(o/a)ndering
Through a method of W(o/a)ndering, this research explores relationships between the body and site, enabled by using different apparatus as a way of inhabiting and being present within a landscape. This approach is conversing with practices of care through a lens of attentiveness and participating with others (both other than human and human), in order to expand upon current modes of care.

In the context of this practice, wondering and wandering are deeply connected and do not occur without the other. Merging the terms wondering and wandering to form w(o/a)ndering is in order to allow space for encountering through an ongoing desire to know and move without preconception. W(o/a)ndering has been practiced through moving within a site using apparatus such as waders, a kayak and skis; following the sites guidance, documenting these encounters and pondering questions that are continuously arising through undertaking this method.

Wondering
I am wondering what an outcome is if landscapes are continuously altering, and if site is always shifting. This wondering is both a form of enquiry and discovery, as curiosity prompts participation, an openness and attentiveness to the ‘other’, beyond the human self.

Wandering
This wondering occurs through wandering and welcomes uncertainty, unpredictability and vulnerability. To wander is to move aimlessly or unrestrained. To w(o/a)nder is to think and encounter through moving along with the landscape.

(K)no(w)ticing
This practice involves w(o/a)ndering as an unfolding of oneself and the site through being present over a prolonged amount of time, that then opens up into (k)no(w)ticing. To (k)no(w)tice is to know and to take notice of who and what else is present in site, with ongoing understandings of what is occurring, how and why. (K)no(w)ticing allows informed decisions to be made and shifts from a practice of observation into a practice of alteration. This is a cyclical method within the practice, meaning once an intervention or action is performed based on the knowledge accumulated, a new dialogue of w(o/a)ndering begins.

This research explores a practice of inhabitational habit, where one may develop a hyper-attentive awareness, seeing beyond oneself and (k)no(w)ticing who and what else is present. Surrounding disciplinary regimes of care explore practices of mending, maintenance and attentiveness in response to Earth’s human-caused damage. The vulnerability felt towards the climate crisis has caused a ‘caretaking’ responsiveness, presenting us with a false sense of control, or similarly, we remain in a position of control. Drawing on the works of Donna Haraway, Tim Ingold, Julian Raxworthy and practitioners of Slow Practice Lab, my work sits in relation to practices of care, however, is aiming to offer an alternative approach in order to shift the perspective of control. Situating this research amongst attentive and slow practices, the ambition of W(o/a)ndering is to find ways of participating with the landscape.