Re: <documenta X><blast>focus on problems

Greg Ulmer (gulmer@ucet.ufl.edu)
Fri, 20 Jun 1997 11:31:45 -0400 (EDT)

I like the suggestions about dividing the general field of dicussion into
distinct threads addressing specific problems (my
interpretation of what was suggested). Even the statement of goals might
end up being too abstract. another possibility would be to state the
problem or project each one is working on, and then consult with each
other about the project.=20

In my case, the discussion of the Salton Sea disaster is very relevant to
my plans for my graduate seminar planned for the fall. The project for
the seminar is to set up a website to promote and explore an "advocacy
consulting." We will organize ourselves as the **emerAgency** and take as
our area of specialization the intractable problems--the sort that baffle
instrumental reason. I would like to discuss this approach here if anyone
is interested. A shorthand note of the method could use the following as
a reference

>=20
> The way in which such cultural productions end up blurred with natural
> phenomena dusts my imagination with uncertainty and indeterminacy, and se=
ts
> me on strange trajectories. The aspect of indeterminacy in virtual space =
is
> also of interest. Where are we? (I'm not to the why and how yet)
>=20
> Eve Andr=E9e Laram=E9e
>=20
>=20
> =20

=09 The approach, that is, is to analyse specific well-documented
disasters as metaphors or figural displacements for the traumatic void of
individual identity formation (subjectivation in poststructural theories
of identity). What we learn from this aesthetic tuning between the
external and internal mood/atmospheres may then be applied to the design
of specific ways to address local problem solving in our community. =20
The goal of the project is the formulation of an "instrumental"
problem-solving that is specific to the humanities and fine arts.
Suggestions, comments, consultations welcome. Also welcome are
collaborations (once the course gets going in late August).

best
Greg Ulmer
http://www.ucet.ufl.edu/~gulmer/