The planned Journal for Artistic Research (JAR) is an international, online, Open Access and peer-reviewed journal for the identification, publication and dissemination of artistic research and its methodology. The journal's most innovative feature is the Research Catalogue (RC), which is a searchable, documentary database of artistic research work and its exposition. The RC is an inclusive, open-ended, bottom-up research tool that supports the journal's academic contributions.

JAR is unique; it is the only journal worldwide that systematically features artistic research output in close proximity to academic articles and methodological discussions. Introducing a high-quality journal in the field allows an ever-increasing number of artistic researchers to partake in what in the sciences and humanities are standard academic publication procedures.

In the context of JAR, artistic research is double defined: in so far as it is research, it enhances knowledge and understanding; because it is artistic, however, the mode of presentation is essential. This definition excludes works of art, for which the mode of presentation is essential, but which do not enhance understanding. It also excludes research that is not dependant on its presentation. Given that artistic research is an emerging paradigm, contributing to the development of epistemological as well as artistic criteria for the exposure of artistic research is a key concern of the journal. JAR embraces research practices across disciplines thereby emphasising the transdisciplinary character of much artistic research. Part of JAR's mission is to re-negotiate art's relationship to academia and the role and function of research in artistic practice.

JAR offers a solution for the desire of artistic researchers to have their work displayed and documented in manner that cares about modes of presentation. By introducing with the RC a standard of documentation, the journal responds to the artistic and academic communities, which require high quality referencing and documentation. Moreover, the journal meets the demand of art institutions such as museums, galleries and collections to have artistic research made accessible.