Research Methods

Research methods intend to reveal new knowledge. In art and design they are most simply
defined by a focus on:

We are convinced that the arts and humanities play a complimentary role to mitigative
scientific response to environmental change by attending to conception, perception,
experience and values. To accomplish this we integrate aesthetics, ethics and science in
pursuit of a better understanding of trees and the human experience of environmental change.

The fundamental methods focus upon testing theory through social/ecological practice.
There are also specific issues in material, technology and content delivery. Ultimately all of
this work contributes to the cultural understanding of trees, carbon dioxide and the human
experience of climate change.

Theory tested in Practice

We work with philosophers to clarify issues about empathy, consciousness and freedom. We then develop experimental artwork that addresses social/ecological concept, perception, experience and evaluation. The work intends to transform normative evaluative frameworks and establish aesthetic/experiential truth.

Material Sculptural-Design

We are seeking to develop attention to the environmental context of the deep-
experience. We explore historic form, reference and contextual meaning. We attend to the communication of material signs and symbols as the means to focus attention and sustain intimate encounters with trees.

Logarithmic Composition

We work with musicians to explore the signs and meaning of data as well as its representation as sound. We attend to the need to establish a ‘true’ and appropriate voice in relationship to ethical responsibility for the trees we collaborate with.

Committing to best tools, technologies and practices we make a small contribution to
what is known amongst scientists concerned with trees and CO2 through experiments and
performance.