First Advisor
Connie Stewart
Second Advisor
Goodwin, Donna
Date Created
8-2019
Abstract
This arts-based research project explores the connection between our deaths and what happens to our personal belongings. I researched body disposition methods and intertwined those concepts with objects found in unlikely places like auctions and the side of the highway into my art practice. Utilizing the a/r/tography methodology, I focused on the spaces between and embracing the rhizomatic connections that appeared through what ultimately was a very personal journey. I collected a variety of data using taphonomy as a metaphor for our personal belongings and as a conceptual framework. Methods of data collection including mind maps, informal surveys, visual journals, auction observations, art making and reflection, and most importantly the extensive cataloging of my personal belongings. The research revealed what was already there.. It revealed that I have a strong point of view and aesthetic sensibility as an artist. However, the findings were much more personal in nature than anticipated.
Extent
79 pages
Local Identifiers
JohnsonARP2019
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by the author.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Sarah Elizabeth, "When I Die Bury Me In This: An Arts-Based Research on Human Death, Decomposition, and Body Disposition Methods and the Taphonomy Metaphor of our Personal Belongings" (2019). Action Research Projects. 21.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/arp/21