Mima - a space for learning and teaching: dancers in the gallery

Heike Salzer, Lorraine Smith, Jessica Gibbs, Katie Smith, Tasha Reay

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

This session will illustrate what role space can play in relation to learning and teaching and how it can positively impact on personal development, such a self-confidence and the broadening of horizons specifically with regard to industry and career prospects, as well as being empowered to initiate independent projects. The dance degree embraces practical experiences aiming to introduce students to professional contexts and working practices, enabling them to develop an understanding of the professional field, as well as gaining confidence through real-life projects. The close partnership with mima offers an ideal opportunity to engage in such projects: in 2015 the dance students collaborated with artist in residence Gemma Draper (Jeweller) and choreographer/lecturer Lorraine Smith to produce a site-specific dance performance based on the jewellery collection. After a term of regular teaching taking place at mima, in the form of workshops and rehearsals, the piece Fabrication was then performed at the International Jewellery conference; students also had the chance to appear and perform as part of the exhibition I, Cave by artist Georgina Starr; and they supported the organisation and production of Tees Dance Film Fest 15, an international screendance festival. Practical aspects such as learning outcomes and assessment strategy will be discussed, and it will be considered how rich the learning environment can become when partnerships with organisations such as mima can be explored. By reflecting on the projects students will share their experiences and the learning that has taken place by being part of these public events at a major gallery.

Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2016
EventFestival of learning Conference-Shifting identities, Changing Practices - Teesside University , Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
Duration: 14 Mar 201617 Mar 2016

Conference

ConferenceFestival of learning Conference-Shifting identities, Changing Practices
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityMiddlesbrough
Period14/03/1617/03/16

Keywords

  • Dance, Gallery, Space, Learning and Teaching

Cite this