A Literary Review on "The Matrixial Border Space" PDF

A Literary Review on “The Matrixial Border Space” by Brancha Lichtenberg Ettinger  About the Author Background: Born in Tel Aviv; Exhibitions: Showcased in major contemporary artist, clinical museums, including The Drawing Center ps...

A Literary Review on “The Matrixial Border Space” by Brancha Lichtenberg Ettinger  About the Author Background: Born in Tel Aviv; Exhibitions: Showcased in major contemporary artist, clinical museums, including The Drawing Center psychologist, and psychoanalyst. (New York, 2001) and The Freud Art: Pioneered "matrixial painting," Museum (London, 2009). integrating art, psychoanalysis, and Writing: Published works on psychology to challenge phallic psychoanalysis, philosophy, feminism, structures in the Symbolic. and ethics, engaging with thinkers like Themes: Explores the erasure of sexual Lévinas, Lyotard, and Lacan. and Jewish differences, reconfiguring Contribution: Developed the "matrixial" Western aesthetics and the masculine concept, rethinking aesthetics and gaze. psychoanalytic theory.  Theoretical Position The theoretical position of the “matrixial border space,” as articulated by Bracha L. Ettinger, emphasizes a unique psychic realm that transcends traditional binary gender distinctions and fosters creative encounters. This concept challenges conventional notions of subjectivity by proposing that identity is formed through relational experiences rather than isolated selfhood. The following sections elaborate on key aspects of this theoretical framework: 1.Matrixial Conceptualization Psychic Borderspace Metramorphosis  2. Feminine Difference 3. Broader Implications Beyond Phallic Cultural and Temporal Structures Dimensions Inter-Subjectivity The matrixial border space offers a rich theoretical lens for understanding identity and creativity, it may also be critiqued for its potential to overlook the complexities of individual experiences and the socio-political factors that shape them. This perspective invites further exploration into how these theoretical constructs can be applied in diverse contexts.  Contributions to Literature Matrix Concept: Defines the Matrix as a psychic borderspace enabling encounters and co-emerging subjectivities, redefining traditional psychoanalytic boundaries (Ettinger, 1996). Metramorphosis: Highlights transformation and interconnectedness in subjectivity and artistic creation. Focus Areas: Explores fascinance and transubjectivity, expanding perspectives on intergenerational trauma and artistic expression (Pollock, 2022). Feminist Intersection: Engages with feminist theorists like Julia Kristeva and Luce Irigaray, advancing discussions on feminine subjectivity and creativity (Johnson, 2006). Art and Psychoanalysis: Challenges psychoanalytic limits and underscores art's role in understanding trauma and human experience (Kuburović, 2009).  Statement about the Books Purpose The purpose of "Bracha Ettinger's Theory of the Matrix" is to elaborate and innovate Ettinger's conceptual vocabulary, focusing on key concepts like fascinance and transubjectivity, while exploring their implications for transmission, trauma, and intergenerationality in psychoanalysis and philosophy (Pollock, 2022). According to (Johnson 2006) the purpose of "Bracha Ettinger's Theory of the Matrix" is to provide a systematic critical reading of Ettinger's theory, exploring its implications within psychoanalysis and examining its relationship to key issues like the feminine, aesthetics, the unconscious, and transference.  Main Character/ Theme Maternal figure as the relationality The wounded woman represents in Bracha’s “Matrixial Borderspace” the exploration of trauma and shapes the importance of memory which emphasizes the connections between individuals importance of acknowledging and how their relationships shape and processing the experiences identity. The concept of relationality of the matrix, especially the extends beyond mere social trauma of birth as it refers to connections; it encompasses “the first great anxiety-state”- emotional bonds, shared memories, archetypally traumatic event and the ways in which individuals (Freud) 1920). influence one another.  Main Character/ Theme Artist as a representation of aesthetics is closely tied p to her Matrixial borderspace refers to a understanding of creativity and the shared space of connection and role of art in processing experiences communication that transcends of trauma and identity. She considers individual boundaries, facilitating that artistic expression serves as an aesthetic and ethical healing essential means of engaging with the practices, particularly in the complexities of human experience. context of women artists and their Individuals can explore their emotions, relational experiences (Bickel, memories, and identities, allowing for 2020). a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships with others.  Context 1. Combining Psychoanalysis, Art, 2. Challenging Old Theories Literary and Feminism By challenging these standard "Matrixial" realm, in which the conceptions, she calls for a boundaries between self and others rethinking of the unconscious, Review are fluid and porous. In this context, suggesting a more inclusive art serves as a medium for exploring perspective that takes into and expressing feelings and account the intricacies of connections that would otherwise be femininity, motherhood, and difficult to communicate through intersubjectivity language  Context 3. Focuses on the feminine Investigates how women's experiences, particularly those involving maternity, intimacy, and trauma, can influence psychoanalysis and artistic expression. The Matrixial Borderspace thus becomes a location for investigating relationships between women and between genders, emphasizing the importance of empathy, shared pain, and collective memory.  Useful and impressive facts about the book 1.Introducing "Metramorphosis" Mutual Influence Without Loss of Individuality - According to Ettinger, people in relationships can influence and modify one another in important ways without abandoning their own identities. Empathy and Shared Experience - When individuals resonate with one another’s experiences, they create a space for mutual recognition and authenticity.  Useful and impressive facts about the book 11.The "matrix" is a symbolic concept Shift Away from Power Dynamics -The matrix symbolizes a shared relational space where connection and difference coexist Shared Space of Connection - ·Allows for the appreciation of diversity and multiplicity in relationships, valuing the richness that different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives bring to interpersonal connections.  Useful and impressive facts about the book 1II. Connects psychoanalysis with art Art as a Lens for Understanding Relationships - Ettinger argues that art serves as a vital medium for exploring the unconscious and the relational dynamics between individuals. Depth of Knowledge - Art can capture and convey the subtleties of human experiences, particularly those related to the feminine and the maternal.  Useful and impressive facts about the book V1. Influences multiple fields The book has had a significant impact on feminist theory, art history, and cultural studies, offering a new way of understanding identity and relationships, especially in a feminist context.  Feminist Theory Redefining Female Subjectivity -Ettinger’s work is pivotal in rethinking female subjectivity by introducing the idea of relationality over isolation Intersectionality and Inclusivity - Consider how overlapping identities (such as race, class, sexuality, and gender) intersect to create unique experiences of oppression and privilege. Art as Feminist Practice - Ettinger connects feminist theory and practice to artistic expression, reinforcing the importance of creativity in articulating and exploring women's experiences.  Art History Revising Artistic Narratives -Challenges conventional narratives that have often sidelined women artists or reduced their contributions to a mere reflection of male-dominated discourses Emphasis on Collaborative Art Practices - Implications for contemporary art that seeks to engage communities and create collective experiences, pushing against the idea of the solitary genius Art as a Site of Healing -This perspective aligns with various art movements focused on social practice, community engagement, and the therapeutic aspects of creativity.  Cultural Studies Analyzing Cultural Narratives - offers tools for cultural studies scholars to analyze cultural narratives and representations through the lens of intersubjectivity and relationality Challenging Dominant Ideologies - By promoting the idea of a shared, networked identity that respects difference, her framework provides a lens for understanding resistance to monolithic cultural narratives and highlights the importance of diverse perspectives. Transnational and Transcultural Considerations - Ettinger's focus on relationality also resonates in the context of globalization and transcultural relationships, allowing scholars to analyze how identity is shaped across cultural and geographic boundaries.  Conclusion The emphasis on art as a tool for healing and understanding really resonates, and the challenge to traditional psychoanalytic views feels both insightful and empowering. It's a theory that encourages empathy and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human relationships. The work redefines subjectivity through the experiences shared and mutual transformation involved. Such is presented as a counterpoint to individualism, outlining a vision of human connection founded on empathy, creativity, and ethical responsibility. Ettinger's ideas inspire a further appreciation for the spaces where individuals connect and grow together. Thank You So Much GROUP 1 ALBISO, CARMEN ANOBA, RIA MOSQUEDA, CHAVEE ROMARES, ANGELITA YURONG, MONICA JANE