Entanglements South-North

Entanglements South-North (2022–2023) exhibits the artistic and research collaborations of a group of four artist-researchers who engaged in digital bioart, co-creation, and shared authorship using arts-based research (ABR) approach (Barone & Eisner, 2012; Chilton & Leavy, 2014; Leavy, 2015). The study aims to offer different perspectives and approaches to understanding conflicts that may occur during the process of connection and creation. Using various natural materials with a personal artistic approach, the artist-researchers translated their visions into colours, images and patterns, which were digitally printed onto eight large textiles (each 140cm x 700cm) that served as a basis for innovative collaborations and creative partnerships. Through these personalised, collaborative textiles, the artist-researchers anticipated fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration, experimentation and new discoveries, bridging the gap between art and science. The arts provide a platform that enables people to forge significant connections, fostering relationships across communities and among individuals and taking on various forms, all of which promote unity and association (Chilton & Leavy, 2014). The work explored the connections between people, natural environments, creativity and identity expression. Consequently, the eight textiles entangled in a dialogue that represented the role of the arts in social change, especially when margins are continually shifting to create new possibilities.