Exploring Night Criminology: An Abstract Examination through Poetry and Visual Arts

• In Event: Convict Criminology Panel #6: Emerging Research in Convict Criminology

Abstract

Night criminology delves into the intricate interplay between darkness and society's underbelly, employing a carceralizing aesthetic-agent that permeates the nocturnal landscape. This study employs the methodologies of poetry and visual arts to undertake a nuanced inquiry into this complex phenomenon. Through poetic inquiry criminology, the narrative unfolds, painting vivid scenes of the night where justice and transgression intertwine. The visual arts offer a canvas upon which the shadows of society are illuminated, revealing the tensions and disparities inherent in the nocturnal realm. However, this exploration is not without its risks. The allure of the carceral gaze threatens to oversimplify human experience, reducing it to mere representations on a page. Thus, it is essential to approach this inquiry with empathy and care, acknowledging the complexities and nuances that shape the night. In conclusion, this abstract proposes a multifaceted approach to understanding night criminology, leveraging the power of poetry and visual arts to shed light on the obscured corners of society while remaining mindful of the dangers of oversimplification. Through this interdisciplinary lens, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the night and its implications for our collective consciousness.

Author

• Lucas Alan Dietsche, Institute for Doctoral Studies for Visual Arts