Generating Empathy in Artists Through Creation
Disciplines
Theatre and Performance Studies
Abstract (300 words maximum)
A piece of thought-provoking art is often viewed as one which audiences will walk away from feeling inspired, enlightened, and connected – how do those thought-provoking aspects then affect those who make the art? Studies have been done to show the impact of representation in media, whether that be representation of race, gender, sexuality, class, or health in music, film, or theatre. Accurate and empathetic representation allows witnesses, audience or otherwise, more accurate and empathetic perspectives and, therefore, responses to those in real life being represented. This project is an exploration of the process of putting on a staged reading of Girl After Doomsday: a play I started writing about my bipolar disorder and the way it affected my relationships. Beginning the process, my goal was to expose my peers to my experience. The methodology included several table reads, bringing on collaborators, the casting process, putting on a show, and receiving feedback. It concluded with me walking away with my own new perspective on myself, my mother, and my disorder, gained through the process of creating a new piece of art. My collaborators walked away with new perspectives on themselves, the way they’ve been treated, and the way they treat others.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
COTA - Theatre and Performance Studies
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Margaret Baldwin Pendergrass
Generating Empathy in Artists Through Creation
A piece of thought-provoking art is often viewed as one which audiences will walk away from feeling inspired, enlightened, and connected – how do those thought-provoking aspects then affect those who make the art? Studies have been done to show the impact of representation in media, whether that be representation of race, gender, sexuality, class, or health in music, film, or theatre. Accurate and empathetic representation allows witnesses, audience or otherwise, more accurate and empathetic perspectives and, therefore, responses to those in real life being represented. This project is an exploration of the process of putting on a staged reading of Girl After Doomsday: a play I started writing about my bipolar disorder and the way it affected my relationships. Beginning the process, my goal was to expose my peers to my experience. The methodology included several table reads, bringing on collaborators, the casting process, putting on a show, and receiving feedback. It concluded with me walking away with my own new perspective on myself, my mother, and my disorder, gained through the process of creating a new piece of art. My collaborators walked away with new perspectives on themselves, the way they’ve been treated, and the way they treat others.