The art of researching with art: Towards an ecological epistemology

The applied theatre researcher faces an abundance of research methodologies. In terms of research training, an inventory of approaches is called for, one that follows the nature and needs of the practice. This article outlines one basic epistemological approach in the field of artistic research and practice-led research, as well as in drama education. Following the influences of avant-garde practice and thinking, an extended epistemology is identified, which builds on the relation or reconnection of sensuous experience and propositional knowing that historically have been marginalized by the dominance of a perceived split: just propositional thinking or just aesthetic experience. Nevertheless, this extended – or what researchers term ‘ecological’ – epistemology is embedded in or protected by many theatre practices. It needs to be recognized as a significant epistemology, serving as base also for research and methodology, and is rooted in the arts movement itself.