Precipitational Learning in the Hydrocene – The Australian Council of University Art and Design Schools

This paper presents one aspect of my research into the role of water as a metaphor and material matter in the field of contemporary art, pedagogy and the climate crisis. It draws on the thinking of Donna Haraway, Astrida Neimanis and bell hooks among other theorists, artists and writers. Specifically, the paper reflects on the ten-day summer course for teenagers, And Forever And, that was held in Stockholm in August 2018. The paper expands and reflects upon the neologism that emerged from the course, that is Precipitational (Participation + Precipitation) learning. The method attempts to use ‘waters’ as a metaphorical and material entry point into collective thinking with the climate crisis.

About the author

Bronwyn Bailey-Charteris is a Swedish/Australian curator, writer and lecturer based in Stockholm. Bronwyn is a current Ph.D. student at the department of Art +Design at the University of New South Wales researching water and art in her thesis entitled ‘Swallowing the Hydrocene: Watery thinking for artistic ‘response-ability’ to the current climate crisis’.

Research interests are focused upon processes of ecology in contemporary art, water as social metaphor and feminist methodologies. Working with practical learning platforms, artistic research, publications, and exhibitions, she works internationally as a curator and lecturer. She is also the leader of Researcher Collaborations at Accelerator at Stockholm University and was previously Curator at Index – The Swedish Contemporary Arts Foundation. She is also sits on the Editorial Board for the international arts journal, Oberon.