Sensing Intangible Forms: spectras, intuition & perceptual encounters

RESEARCH BACKGROUND: The exhibition Cloudy Sensoria explored the rich history of the Bundoora homestead through perceptual encounters. This relates to an important development in contemporary practice and theory investigating the aesthetics of perception as a critical aspect of experiencing the 'lived' space; linking to the work of practitioners such as James Turrell, Olafur Eliasson, Philippe Rahm, Fujiko Nakaya and Juhani Pallasmaa. RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION: The catalogue essay - 'Sensing Intangible Forms: spectres, intuition & perceptual encounters' contextualized the curatorial intent and ideas of the exhibition in reference to the site-specific work and the historical significance of the homestead - from its importance to Melbourne's racing history as a stud farm to the breakthrough medical experiments of Dr John Cade using Lithium Carbonate in treating mental illness; specifically bipolar disorder. The essay discussed each exhibited work in relation to the curatorial context as well as exploring cultural and social historical parallels to align the history of the homestead, and in doing so the work which responded to this, into a broader context. RESEARCH SIGNIFICANCE: The essay formed an important part of the exhibition catalogue, which was sold to exhibition patrons. The exhibition was regarded by the Bundoora Homestead Art Centre Board as one of the more adventurous forays into contemporary art and design practice and with substantial catalogue sales, over 3500 visitors, numerous tour groups from educational institutions, well-attended lectures and media coverage, this exhibition was highly successful in achieving its objective and disseminating the curatorial ideas of the exhibition. The exhibition was supported by the City of Darebin and Arts Victoria.