During the first phase of the project, from January 2022 to January 2024, researchers in the consortium participated in various training events. These sessions focused on exploring the diverse research methodologies we employ, spanning disciplines such as Cultural Sociology, Critical Pedagogical Practices, Behavioural Economics, and Cultural Policy. These activities helped SPACEX researchers understand the project's context and fostered stronger connections within the network, leading to new and enduring collaborations across the consortium. The SPACEX researchers hail from a wide array of disciplines, including cultural sociology, critical pedagogical practice, behavioural economics, visual culture, art history, curatorial studies, cultural policy, education, architecture, art and design practice, and urban studies. Training plays a crucial role in the project, as it brings together both early career and seasoned researchers to learn and grow together, enhancing their knowledge and skills for future career opportunities.
The researchers have commenced their secondments, engaging with host organizations to advance their research endeavors. The project's framework facilitates collaboration between university researchers and those from cultural organizations, encouraging them to operate within each other's professional environments across national borders. These researchers are divided into three work package groups: Practices, Urban Subjects, and Archives. Each group focuses on specific topics and questions that guide their research and activities.
During the initial phase, secondment activities have catalysed new research endeavours, resulting in the creation of spatial artworks, exhibitions, talks, conference presentations, and journal articles. This wealth of information is documented on our website, accompanied by insightful blogs penned by researchers detailing their experiences. As the second period unfolds, we anticipate a surge in activity with the completion of additional secondments. From this expanded effort, we aim to develop three comprehensive best practice reports, which will distil our findings, showcase case studies, and offer practical recommendations for wider adoption. These insights will also be disseminated to a broader audience through an international conference. Furthermore, selected works and activities will form the foundation of a forthcoming book on spatial practice. Additionally, we plan to organize three events across Europe where our findings will be exhibited and discussed with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
