Editorial: the problem of interpretation in research in the visual and performing arts

In the context of academic research, depending on a community's worldview, interpretation will be a benefit or a problem. The definition of interpretation, its relevance and role in academic research and, as a result, the need or possibility of promoting or controlling it will be framed by this world-view. Through styles of academic writing, for example, the role of interpretation can go from central to peripheral, in response to the author's desire for specificity or plurality of interpretation. Control of reader-interpretation is an aim of traditional research, but is not normally an aim of creative practice. Therefore, whether or not interpretation is a key feature or problem in practice-based research is what we are here to discuss today. [opening paragraph]