I never got into being an artist. For me, it's always more research, storytelling, maybe technological experimental. It's more like a laboratory setting.
This quote by Hito Steyerl highlights a perspective on creativity that transcends traditional notions of artistry. Rather than focusing solely on the aesthetic or performative aspects of art, Steyerl emphasizes the importance of research, storytelling, and experimental technology as core components of her practice. Viewing the artistic process as a laboratory suggests an environment where exploration, experimentation, and scientific inquiry converge to produce innovative work. Such an approach encourages a mindset rooted in curiosity and discovery, where the boundaries between art, technology, and research blur.
This mindset resonates deeply in contemporary creative fields, where interdisciplinary collaborations are commonplace. By positioning her process within a laboratory setting, Steyerl underscores that art can serve as a space for experimentation that challenges conventional norms and pushes the limits of technology and narrative. It also reflects a political dimension—research and experimentation as tools for questioning societal structures and exploring new possibilities.
Furthermore, this perspective shifts the value of art from purely aesthetic achievements to the process of investigation and storytelling, which can lead to more meaningful and impactful outcomes. It's a reminder that artistry encompasses a diverse array of activities—some more akin to scientific inquiry—fostering innovation and deeper engagement with complex issues.
In sum, the quote encourages embracing a multidisciplinary approach to creation, one that privileges exploration, critical thinking, and technological experimentation as essential elements of the artistic journey.
