Understanding the Haptic Experience through Bodily Engagement with Sculptural Ceramics

Abstract

This paper presents an on-going research project undertaken by an artist-researcher who uses both investigation into haptic theory and the creation of ceramic objects to increase our understanding of the experience of touch. It asks the question, “How and in what way can an artist contribute to understanding haptics?” The artistic journey began with an interest in the textured surface of ceramics. Physiological, anthropological, and philosophical perspectives were interwoven with studio practice, resulting in the creation of ‘cast hugs’, ceramic sculptures made through the use of the artist’s body. The physical qualities of the ceramic objects positively engaged participants’ haptic abilities to distinguish shape, to discriminate texture, temperature, and weight, and to engage their sense of proprioception. It was found that when these senses were fully stimulated, emotions, memories, and associations were strongly evoked.