Search Results (51)

The failure of top-down approaches to education policy in England draws attention to the importance of context and foregrounds the need to help teachers to see themselves as practitioner–researchers, scholars and researchers capable of conducting systematic and trustworthy research into the improvement of their educational practice from the ground up and on the inside. This empirical, small-scale, qualitative study presents accounts of the lived experiences of 12 practitioner–researchers as they engage in the national practitioner research programme (PRP). The PRP offers intensive MPhil/PhD research training in which the evocative powers of aesthetic experience, culture and the arts are purposefully introduced to support practitioner–researcher–scholar identity formation and to encourage teachers to heighten the vitality of pedagogy and curriculum content by putting the cultural resources of society to work to make key ideas and concepts in education and educational research more accessible to all learners. Methods include 12 semi-structured interviews of 45–60 min, observation, field notes, case studies and extracts from MPhil/PhD theses. An objective of PRP research is to contribute to understanding how educational change and improvement might be done differently, including how persistent divisions, and barriers to teachers’ successful engagement in educational research and improvement, might be dismantled and dissolved through the strategic development of system-wide, HE-supported practitioner research. This article examines and calls into question the commonly held view that the arts are basically only instrumentally useful for their impact upon something else, such as the development of critical thinking and creativity. Main findings suggest that the use of aesthetic experience and the arts create epistemic-shortcuts which can not only help practitioners to overcome “imposter syndrome” but also enable them to access key ideas theories and concepts, theories and ideas in education and educational research more easily from the ground up, in context-attuned ways. Full article

This article reports findings from a series of learning episodes in the form of case studies from inside English teaching classrooms that use music and literary extracts to make English Language and its possible applications and interpretations alive to students. Central to this exploration is the concept of artistry, characterised here as a nuanced practice involving four interrelated elements: the possession of an idea worth expressing, the imaginative ability to conceive its expression, the technical skill to work with materials, and the sensibilities required to make delicate, evocative adjustments. For the tens of thousands of young people in the Further Adult, Vocational and Education (FAVE) sector in England retaking GCSE English every year, artistry is an often neglected but vital concept that is routinely overshadowed by more pragmatic and reductive interpretations of the English Language curriculum. Low national achievement rates for re-sitting students do little to incentivize institutions and teachers in experimenting with their curriculum. Moreover, many re-sitting students become demotivated and disengaged due to numerous previously failed attempts to achieve a pass grade. This small-scale, qualitative research study explores and proposes new possibilities regarding how the FAVE GCSE English curriculum can be realised in engaging and meaningful ways. Concepts of artistry are put to work with students in the FAVE GCSE English classroom to bring to the fore how these ideas in the GCSE English Language curriculum might be brought to life in ways which develop understanding and foster interest in the study of English Language. Full article

Set in the vocational education and training sector in England, this article draws attention to how top-down, centre–periphery approaches to curriculum design and development in vocational education fail for at least three reasons. First, they misconstrue the nature of knowledge. Second, they lead to perfunctory and fragmented approaches to curriculum design, coupled with mechanistic measures of quality and achievement, which often require little more than “one-off” and superficially assessed demonstrations of performance. Finally, they underplay the role and importance of the teacher as researcher and artist in putting the cultural resources of society to work in creative curriculum design and pedagogy. Teacher artistry is pivotal in animating and heightening the vitality of vocational curricula. It is through this artistry that teachers make theories, ideas and concepts in vocational subjects and disciplines accessible and meaningful to all learners in coherent ways in the contexts of their learning and their lives. The consequences of the epistemic faux pas underpinning centre-to-periphery models of curriculum design and development are highlighted in this article in vocational tutors’ accounts of experiences of problems and issues in curriculum design, development and assessment encountered in their practice. Participants in the research teach in a variety of vocational education settings, including Apprenticeships and Higher-Level Technical Education; English Language at General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) level; Health and Social Care; Information and Communications Technology; Construction (Plumbing); Digital Production, Design and Development and High-Tech Precision Engineering. Data are analysed and reported through systematic, thematic analysis This article draws upon qualitative data derived from a study funded by the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) in England over a two-year period from 2021 to 2023. The research population consists of a group of eight practitioner–researchers working in three colleges of Further Education (FE) and one Industry Training Centre (ITC) in England. All of the teachers of vocational education reported here volunteered to participate in the study. Research methods include semi-structured interviews, analysis of critical incidents and case studies produced by practitioner–researchers from across the FE and Skills sector in England. Full article

The preservation and digital transmission of cultural heritage have become increasingly vital in the era of immersive media. This study introduces a real-time framework for digitizing and animating traditional performing arts, with a focus on Korean traditional dance as a representative case study. The proposed approach combines three core components: (1) high-fidelity 3D avatar creation through volumetric scanning of performers, costumes, and props; (2) real-time motion capture using multi-camera edge processing; and (3) motion-to-avatar animation that integrates skeletal mapping with physics-based simulation. By transmitting only essential motion keypoints from lightweight edge devices to a central server, the system enables bandwidth-efficient streaming while reconstructing expressive, lifelike 3D avatars. Experiments with eight performers and eight cameras achieved low latency (~200 ms) and minimal network load (<1 Mbps), successfully reproducing the esthetic qualities and embodied gestures of Korean traditional performances in a virtual environment. Beyond its technical contributions, this framework provides a novel pathway for the preservation, dissemination, and immersive re-experiencing of intangible cultural heritage, ensuring that the artistry of traditional dance can be sustained and appreciated in digital form. Full article

This research offers a fresh lens on Iranian cultural heritage houses by interrogating the overlooked role of Orosi windows in shaping socio-spatial accessibility and visual permeability. While these decorative stained-glass features are traditionally appreciated for their artistry and environmental performance, their functional impact on visibility and spatial interaction remains underexplored. The study aims to assess how window visual permeability influences socio-spatial accessibility within the hierarchical layouts of historic houses in Iran. To this end, a quantitative approach was adopted, applying convex space analysis to examine socio-spatial dynamics and visibility graph analysis (VGA) to study visual permeability within the space syntax framework. Fifteen heritage houses were analysed under two conditions using VGA: their current status quo, and a hypothetical model in which windows were treated as fully transparent, allowing unobstructed sightlines. The analyses demonstrated that removing window barriers enhanced visual integration and connectivity across all cases. Statistical t-tests further confirmed that these differences were significant, establishing that Orosi windows exert a profound influence on visual permeability. Beyond their ornamental and climatic roles, this study redefines Orosi windows as dynamic cultural devices that actively script human visibility, privacy, and interaction, revealing how historical design intelligence can inform sustainable, culturally responsive architectural practices. Full article

In recent years, advancements in generative artificial intelligence have led to the development of sophisticated tools capable of mimicking diverse artistic styles, opening new possibilities for digital creativity and artistic expression. This paper presents a critical assessment of the style replication capabilities of contemporary generative models, evaluating their strengths and limitations across multiple dimensions. We examine how effectively these models reproduce traditional artistic styles while maintaining structural integrity and compositional balance in the generated images. The analysis is based on a new large dataset of AI-generated works imitating artistic styles of the past, holding potential for a wide range of applications: the “AI-Pastiche” dataset. This study is supported by extensive user surveys, collecting diverse opinions on the dataset and investigating both technical and aesthetic challenges, including the ability to generate outputs that are realistic and visually convincing, the versatility of models in handling a wide range of artistic styles, and the extent to which they adhere to the content and stylistic specifications outlined in prompts, preserving cohesion and integrity in generated images. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of generative tools in style replication, offering insights into their technical and artistic limitations, potential advancements in model design and training methodologies, and emerging opportunities for enhancing digital artistry, human–AI collaboration, and the broader creative landscape. Full article

Fluid effects are important in films and advertisements, where their realism and aesthetic quality directly impact the visual experience. With the rapid advancement of digital technology and computer-aided design (CAD), modern visual effects are used to simulate various water-related phenomena, such as flowing water, ocean waves, and raindrops. However, creating these realistic effects is not solely dependent on advanced software and hardware; it also requires an understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of visual effects artists. In the creation process, the artist must possess a keen aesthetic sense and innovative thinking to craft stunning visual effects to overcome technological constraints. Whether depicting the grandeur of turbulent ocean scenes or the romance of gentle rain, the artist needs to transform fluid effects into expressive visual language to enhance emotional impact, aligning with the storyline and the director’s vision. The production process of fluid effects typically involves the following critical steps. First, the visual effects artist utilizes CAD-based tools, particle systems, or fluid simulation software to model the dynamic behavior of water. This process demands a solid foundation in physics and the ability to adjust parameters flexibly according to the specific needs of the scene, ensuring that the fluid motion appears natural and smooth. Next, in the rendering stage, the simulated fluid is transformed into realistic imagery, requiring significant computational power and precise handling of lighting effects. Finally, in the compositing stage, the fluid effects are seamlessly integrated with live-action footage, making the visual effects appear as though they are parts of the actual scene. In this study, the technical details of creating fluid effects using free software such as Blender were explored. How advanced CAD tools are utilized to achieve complex water effects was also elucidated. Additionally, case studies were conducted to illustrate the creative processes involved in visual effects production to understand how to seamlessly blend technology with artistry to create unforgettable visual spectacles. Full article

Islamic ornamentation is important to mosque architecture, reflecting Islamic culture’s rich traditions and artistry. In contemporary European mosques, the challenge lies in combining these traditional styles with modern architectural designs, creating spaces that honor heritage and foster inclusivity among varied Muslim communities. These challenges impact mosque design’s cultural, esthetic, and functional dimensions, essential for sustaining Islamic identity. To explore how these factors influence cultural architectural expressions, this study examines ornamentation in four contemporary European mosques: Cologne Central Mosque (Germany), Cambridge Central Mosque (United Kingdom), Al-Ándalus Mosque (Spain), and Rijeka Mosque (Croatia). It evaluates their impact on cultural heritage, esthetic appeal, functionality, and Islamic identity within the context of modern architectural styles through a comparative analysis. The results demonstrate adaptations to local contexts and modern trends. Al-Ándalus Mosque reveals a strong identity by preserving traditional heritage, while Cologne and Cambridge Mosques balance tradition and modernity. Rijeka Mosque, heavily influenced by minimalism, reduces cultural richness despite a contemporary approach. Modern innovations like sustainable materials enhance functionality but sometimes dilute Islamic identity. The study concludes that integrating traditional elements with modern esthetics and functionality is essential to aligning mosque design with contemporary styles, while preserving Islamic identity and fostering a sense of belonging within Muslim communities in Europe. Full article

In the image era, architectural drawing gradually evolved from being a part of traditional architectural design to an artistic form with independent aesthetic value. However, a systematic evaluation method for this unique art form is still lacking. This study analyzes the works of four Chinese and Japanese architects, focusing on the functionality and artistry of architectural drawings. Combining iconography, semiotic analysis, and theories from visual culture studies, it explores the visual language and cultural significance embedded in architectural drawings from a new perspective and attempts to establish an evaluation framework. The analysis of visual symbols, cultural codes, and social contexts reveals how architects convey architectural concepts, historical memories, and urban landscapes through their drawings. This study finds that architectural drawings not only convey architectural information but also integrate cultural narratives and artistic expression, serving as an important intersection between architecture and other disciplines. Although interpretations may vary across cultural contexts, the semiotic approach offers a relatively objective evaluation system. This research helps architects, artists, and educators better understand the role of architectural drawing and promotes its application in architectural design, artistic creation, and education. Full article

Beijing’s royal gardens represent the highest artistry in the artificial modification and utilization of natural hill and lake landforms. They also encompass the most concentrated ancient Chinese royal architectural heritage complexes. Their sustainable development has drawn significant attention, particularly in detecting and identifying areas of land subsidence and analyzing its influencing factors, which are crucial for preserving Beijing’s royal architectural heritage. This study employed time-series interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) technology to collect 148 SAR datasets from 2019 to 2023. It compares the persistent scatterer (PS)–InSAR and small baseline subset (SBAS)–InSAR techniques for cross-validation analyses to systematically assess the spatial characteristics of land subsidence of the most valuable architectural heritage complexes in the four most representative Beijing’s royal gardens. The study identified several areas with concentrated subsidence. Further analysis of the types of ancient building locations reveals that buildings situated in hilly areas (Type C), waterside buildings (Type A1), and near-water buildings (Type A2) are more significantly affected by land subsidence. Through an analysis of the causes of subsidence, it was found that, affected by the “excavating lakes and piling hills” landscape modification method and the utilization of natural hilled terrain approach, the subsidence observed in most Type C architectural heritage complexes within the study area may be associated with the Holocene sediments in the underlying soils beneath the shallow foundations of architectural heritage, localized bedrock instability caused by exposure and weathering, and slope instability. Type A building complexes’ subsidence and localized uplift may be associated with Holocene sediments beneath their foundations. The cross-comparison between SBAS-InSAR and PS-InSAR provides a reference framework for exploring land deformation research in architectural heritage sites where detection methods are constrained. Full article

Intuitive reasoning is a fundamental aspect of both the creation and interpretation of art. It allows artists to express their deepest emotions and subconscious thoughts, leading to works that can evoke strong reactions in viewers. For those who interpret art, intuition enables a direct and holistic understanding that goes beyond analytical fragmentation, allowing for a more personal and profound engagement with the work of art. Academic research conducted on the works of Polish and Ukrainian students has shown that art in times of unrest reflects deeply hidden emotions. The works of students from Zaporizhzhia collected less than a week before the armed invasion of Ukraine in 2022 indicated national sentiments, fears, and premonitions that were absent from the works of Polish students. The armed conflict with Russia, which has been ongoing since 2014, has strengthened the sense of national identity and patriotism among Ukrainian youth. A comparison of the perspectives of Polish and Ukrainian youth shows differences resulting from direct experience of the conflict and the influence of media, education, and politics on their perception. Full article

This article investigates Jesus’s identity in the Synoptic Gospels by examining the Gospels’ literary features. I take a narrative approach to determine how the evangelists, in unique and shared ways, reveal to their audiences who Jesus is. Certain literary features in the evangelists’ texts provide an answer to Jesus’s question, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matt 16:15; Mark 8:29; Luke 9:20). For Mark, Jesus is “Christ” and “Son of God” (Mark 1:1); as the plot unfolds, these terms become guideposts suggesting that characters in the Gospel (and by extension the audience, too) come to a deeper understanding of who Jesus is. For Matthew, the good news of Jesus commences with the relationship between Jesus and Israel’s past through figures like David and Abraham. By observing how Matthew characterizes Jesus in the Gospel, the audience learns that Jesus stands in continuity with Israel. Finally, Luke starts his account with a focus not on figures from Israel’s history, but rather on its institutions, like the temple and the priesthood (see Luke 1:5, 9). Luke’s audience learns who Jesus is by paying attention to Luke’s use of settings and themes. Thus, the particular literary artistry of each synoptic evangelist provides a way for a contemporary audience to know Jesus. Full article

The article explores the unique friendship and creative synergy between two towering figures of late Soviet underground culture, the avant-garde jazz musician Sergei Kuriokhin and the poet Arkady Dragomoshchenko. Both outsiders in Leningrad, they shaped its literary and musical landscapes without aligning with any movements. Dragomoshchenko, a seminal poet, defied categorization, while Kuriokhin, a polymath, challenged conventions across music, performance, and politics. Their collaboration epitomized innovation, blending Dragomoshchenko’s cerebral poetry with Kuriokhin’s avant-garde music. Despite linguistic barriers, their connection transcended verbal communication, rooted in shared modes of nonlinear thinking and creative experimentation. Kuriokhin’s revolutionary Pop Mekhanika, a chaotic fusion of genres and sensory experiences, mirrored Dragomoshchenko’s relentless poetic evolution. Their friendship catalyzed pivotal encounters, such as with the American poet Lyn Hejinian, expanding their artistic horizons. Dragomoshchenko’s poetic vision, centred on perception’s fleeting nature and the boundaries of possibility, echoed Kuriokhin’s multisensory assaults on audience expectations. Through their unconventional artistry, Kuriokhin and Dragomoshchenko navigated the shifting cultural landscape of late Soviet society, embodying a spirit of defiance and exploration. Their enduring influence transcends their untimely deaths, leaving an indelible mark on Russian avant-garde culture. Full article

Introduction: This qualitative literature review explored the intersection of art, creativity, and the nurse–patient relationship in the context of oncology nursing. It delved into the perceptions and reflections of nurses as captured by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) analysis from two specialized nursing databases. Methods: The protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF) Platform. A comprehensive search was conducted in CINAHL, the British Nursing Database, and the Nursing & Allied Health Database, using keywords related to art, cancer, creativity, nursing, and relationships. The extracted qualitative research studies were then analyzed using GAI to identify key themes and insights. Results: The analysis revealed profound considerations regarding the role of nurses in oncology and palliative patient care. Nurses acknowledged the spiritual dimension through religious and spiritual practices, while emphasizing authentic presence and empathic communication. They actively addressed patient concerns, adapted to challenges, and engaged in continuous professional development. The insights from the GAI interpretation underscored the significance of empathy, creativity, and artistry in nurturing meaningful nurse–patient connections. Conclusions: The GAI-enabled exploration provided valuable insights into several dimensions of care, emphasizing the importance of spiritual sensitivity, empathic communication, and ongoing professional growth. As technology and human care converge, integrating artistry into the nurse–patient relationship could enhance patient experiences, improve outcomes, and enrich the oncology nursing practice. Full article

Biblical Scholars working with ancient texts are engaged in the daily task of Bible translation. A commitment to Biblical Performance Criticism (BPC) can be transformative in the task of translation. It is argued in this paper that responsible translation will work towards replicating the artistry of original transmitters of texts in order to draw out traces of the original orality embedded in the texts. Examples of performance-sensitive translations of texts predominantly from the Hebrew Bible are provided. This e-paper also demonstrates that translations that draw out performative elements contribute to interpretation, especially when such scripts are staged before audiences. Subsequent analysis of the performance including audience response contributes to such interpretation. Performance-sensitive translation and actual performance thus become tools for embodiment and the interpretation of biblical texts in our own time. Full article