Inhabiting space and place : from installation to the clinical setting

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between place in installation art and its relevance to the practice of placemaking in a hospital setting. The discussion draws on phenomenology, psychodynamic theory and contemporary art, in particular the author's art experience of places, their formal qualities and potential meanings, along with, an examination of what creates an embodied sense of being contained at home ( emotionally and physically). Some of the questions posed for discussion include; what is it about places that becomes inherent to memory and shapes its form? How do places impact on what we do there and who we are? Is place more significant in memory for a young child or someone in a vulnerable state of being (as in the hospital setting)? Process issues, along with physical outcomes, in installations and in the hospital projects are discussed.

Date of Award	2002
Original language	English