Practice-led research, the ethnographer and unearthing knowledge: crossing the thresholds

This article is within the context of a prose writer immersed in creative practice. It takes into account the 'nebulous' concept of practice-led research arising from its 'newness' and 'subtleties', addressed in this paper. It considers how former practice in consistent methodology as a scientist amplifies the intricacy of experiential research. It outlines how I have problematised practice-led research: its qualitative and non-quantifiable nature; the elusiveness of defining new knowledge in diverse creative research settings; and the dual roles of artist and scholar, in a type of collaboration that engenders knowledge while creating art. Finding knowledge in practice-led research is also retrospective because outcomes are yet uncertain. This paper offers practicable solutions in the bridges of immersive practice and mentoring, both valuable instruments to reorient the solitary researcher. The bridges can help uncover framing strategies and shape intellectual and artistic engagement to unravel creative art as answerable to knowledge.