Institute
The Institute for the Performing Arts and Film (IPF) serves as the platform for research and development (R&D) in film, dance and theatre within the Department of Performing Arts and Film (DDK) at Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK).
Researchers at the institute test out, develop and apply the methods and idioms of the artistic research process, and possible ways of presenting the results. The aim of the research is actively to debate existing research paradigms and continuously work to develop a research concept best suited to our environment.
The IPF initiates, supports and supervises a wide range of research projects. Besides generating productive questions, it facilitates artistic and scientific exchange between researchers both within and outside ZHdK and between researchers and students. It brings together experts, pools research results and publishes the findings. Its work is not only aimed at a specialist audience and interested members of the public; the results of the research also feed directly back into the teaching of the Department of Performing Arts and Film.
The projects are developed in close cooperation with lecturers, artistic practice and partners in the fields of business, culture and education. The aim is, on the one hand, to establish methodological and technical principles that will be of practical relevance in film, dance and acting. On the other, the projects also pursue their own objectives by describing and analysing performative processes, their requirements and effects, how they are received by people, and viewing habits. This work depends on an interdisciplinary approach, employs a broad range of skills in the research process and explores new and innovative avenues in artistic research.