Carrie L Fonder

By definition, art research is a multifaceted field that explores various methods and techniques for researching to expand artists’ knowledge and experience of their artwork. While art-based research is often seen as less academic than S.T.E.M research, the main distinction lies in that artists aim to learn and discover during the research process, rather than proving a specific idea or theory. However, because art research processes can vary so significantly, whether it’s hands-on material exploration or data-driven research papers, this project aimed to condense it into a few manageable steps and methods to improve ease for artists, break down stereotypes, and provide awareness to students about opportunities for research involvement through Office of Undergraduate Research programs.

Inspired by the tradition or Griots, West African poets, musicians, and storytellers who are the keepers of oral tradition, the MyStory Griot Project was launched in Fall of 2020 by the UWF College of Art Social Sciences and Humanities Dean's Workgroup on Race, Diversity, and Belonging. The project invited members of the campus community to talk and write about their lived experience with race and race relations. It has created a space for individuals to share their stories while others have the opportunity to listen, learn, and expand their understanding of the complexity of race and racism. The stories shared are topically broad: some of them address experiences with racism; some address the intersection of race and other forms of discrimination, while others are a celebration of individuals who were allies in challenging times. All are incredibly moving.

The objective of this research is to experiment with organically composing the growth structures of several molds and bacterias in a petri dish with the intent of creating a visually appealing array of living textures, shapes, and colors that will be photographically documented. Through the cultivation of these organisms, the outcome of my research will be to reveal the connection between what mankind considers 'fine art' and biology.