Philosophical enquiry is a tool for shared meaning-making

There are two types of art galleries: those with their own collections, and those that borrow pieces for exhibitions. In my experience, those that have to borrow tend to work particularly hard at bringing in members of their local population, since they can’t fall back on having pictures on the walls permanently.

The Towner in Eastbourne embodies the best of both worlds. It has its own collection, which includes famous and well-loved images by ‘local artist’ Eric Ravilious; yet it works intensely to serve, educate and entertain its local population.

Last year it hosted the Turner Prize shortlist, and the funding that had been put in place for this major undertaking enabled various projects, linked to the big show, to take place. One was an introductory P4C course for art teachers of Year 9 students, who had been brought for a visit to the show. Employees of The Towner team joined the course, including some members of the front-of-house team, who look after the visitors. The content of the exhibition was demanding in as many different ways as the number of artists exhibited. It made sense to find ways of making meaning of the works together and to facilitate the meaning-making of others, whether they were students or visitors from the general public. As we know, philosophical enquiry is an ideal tool for such shared meaning-making.

There was also an opportunity to think together about the drawings exhibition, curated by David and Liza Dimbleby, entitled Drawing the Unspeakable that followed the Turner Prize and is on show now. This exhibition contains some extremely challenging pieces, which became more approachable as a result of the enquiries.

It was a joyful experience. The mix of art teachers, gallery educators and visitor guides resulted in a huge range of understandings and experiences being shared.

Here is part of one visitor guide’s reflections:

“Apart from the fact that, personally, I just really enjoy talking about art and connecting with people through that kind of engagement, work-wise I think it’s given me a huge insight into how to ‘open up’ conversations with visitors and increased my awareness of others’ point of view and perspectives. It’s also given me confidence and inspiration – in terms of possible subject matter for presentations and responses in the galleries. It’ll probably work its way into any art store tours I may do as well! 

I can totally see the way that, when brought into schools, this kind of philosophical approach can be so expansive and such a fulfilling experience for children, which can be the catalyst to so many positive things!”

– Dr Sara Liptai is a Thoughtful Trainer,