Humanities and Arts
‘Papiers Voisins’, Stories of Entangled Documentations
rnfinity
Abstract
The following pages are four out of the fifteen graphic pages ‘Papiers Voisins’, in my PhD thesis Reading in Performance, Lire en Spectacle: The solitude of reading merged with the collective nature of an audience (2021). Through my practices as a spectator, a participant of a performing arts works, a reader of performance documentation and a choreographer I collect visual elements that I then assemble. This process is my way of cultivating attention to what is active in documentations and attending to their contingencies. The texts on this page provide the title and some references for each graphic page.
Key Questions
What is the main theme of the article "‘Papiers Voisins’, Stories of Entangled Documentations"?
The article delves into the concept of "entangled documentations," exploring how different forms of documentation intersect and influence one another, particularly through the lens of the 'Papiers Voisins' collection, which embodies a complex narrative of overlapping archival materials.
What are 'Papiers Voisins' and why are they significant in this context?
'Papiers Voisins' refers to a collection of documents that offer insight into the personal and historical entanglements of their creators. The significance lies in how these documents intertwine, offering a rich understanding of how archives can reflect multifaceted, interconnected histories.
How does the article define 'entangled documentations'?
The term 'entangled documentations' is used to describe the complex, interwoven relationships between various archival materials, where one document influences or is influenced by others, creating a web of interconnected stories and meanings.
What role does archival research play in understanding these entangled documentations?
Archival research is essential in unraveling the complexities of entangled documentations, as it allows researchers to explore the intricate layers of history embedded within the documents. This research unveils the interactions between personal, social, and historical narratives that are often overlooked.
How does the article address the concept of 'entangled histories'?
The article explores the idea of 'entangled histories,' emphasizing that history is not linear or isolated but rather a network of interconnected events and experiences. These histories, captured in the documents, reveal how personal and collective memories overlap and inform each other.
What is the significance of the 'Papiers Voisins' collection in understanding historical narratives?
The 'Papiers Voisins' collection is significant because it provides a rare glimpse into the ways personal documents can shape historical narratives. By analyzing these materials, the article highlights the importance of individual perspectives in forming broader historical understanding.
How does the article suggest archival materials can be reinterpreted?
The article suggests that archival materials should be reinterpreted through a more critical lens, considering their entanglements with other documents and histories. This approach helps to uncover hidden narratives and challenges traditional ways of understanding archival materials.
What are the implications of 'entangled documentations' for future archival practices?
The article posits that understanding 'entangled documentations' requires a shift in archival practices towards more interconnected, dynamic interpretations of historical materials. This perspective encourages archivists to see documents not as isolated pieces but as part of a broader, evolving narrative.
How does the article address the relationship between personal and collective memory?
The article explores the intersection between personal and collective memory, suggesting that personal documents often contribute to collective historical narratives. It argues that personal memories, when documented, can have a profound impact on shaping collective understanding of the past.
What does the article reveal about the potential for documents to challenge historical narratives?
The article reveals that documents have the potential to challenge established historical narratives by offering alternative perspectives. These documents, particularly when entangled with others, provide a more nuanced understanding of history that may not align with mainstream accounts.
