Practise what you preach

Practice as research is often misunderstood and questioned by reviewers from more traditional disciplines. Paul Allain explains the complexities and suggests how applicants can make a strong case for funding.

Paul’s top tips  

• Reviewers may not be familiar with practice as research, so explain the context, costs and unusual methods.
• Explain how your practice is integral to and necessary for the research, and not an end in itself.
• Provide evidence for your intangible practice using digital documentation
• Use traditional publication methods and creative dissemination to complement your practice.

Practice as research has been around in the performing arts for more than two decades. It describes a process of investigation and publication that does not normally only result in writing, but also in exhibition, live performance or a multitude of other creative, embodied or digital formats.