2011 UAAC Conference / Congrès AAUC 2011

Post-disciplinarity and Sloppy Craft – A Critical Engagement
Is “sloppy craft” fine art or hopeless amateurism? Does post-disciplinarity exist “in the ruins of outmoded disciplinary structures” – mediating between nostalgia for disciplinary boundaries and excitement at the intellectual freedom their demise might offer – or could interdisciplinarity still offer much to illuminate issues attached to “sloppy craft”? And importantly, what are the historical antecedents to this recent turn in craft discourse? This panel seeks to critically assess the value of the post-disciplinary method proposed as a way forward for the making of craft and its discourse (advocated most prominently by craft theorist Glenn Adamson).

We invite speakers to consider ways the following terms/concepts might interact with “sloppy craft” and the post-disciplinarity advocated for it: DIY, amateur, traditional, conceptual art, intentionality, materiality, function, community, skilful, historical, design. Speakers may also consider the advantages of an interdisciplinary approach to these terms/concepts in their application to “sloppy craft.”

Co-chairs:
Elaine Cheasley Paterson, PhD
Craft Historian,
Department of Art History
Concordia University,
EV 3.765 1455 De Maisonneuve Boulevard West
Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8
514.848.2424 ext. 4605
email: [email protected]
UAAC No. 10069 (being renewed)

Susan Surette, MA
PhD candidate,
Department of Art History
Concordia University
279 ave. des Erables
Brigham, Qc. J2K 4C8
450.263.5696
email: [email protected]
UAAC No. In process of being issued