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The pushing and pulling required to present artistic activity as research in order to tap into research assessment exercise funding has been described as risible ("Creativity czar should consider dual funding", THES , May 3). But the resistance to recognising clearly identifiable research activity in the creative arts sector is still lamentable.

A relatively small but internationally connected body of academics is addressing practical, philosophical, technological and pedagogic research questions in art and design. They use a wide variety of established research methods and do not argue that "practice" is the only method open to them. Both practice and research into practice can contribute to creative thinking and national economic success.

Judith Mottram
Loughborough University
School of Art and Design.