This talk introduces Black Mountain College, its educational philosophies and how it intended to shape the future of art and learning. We will look at the core of the school’s curriculum specifically focusing on the art and pedagogical work of the school's first art teachers Anni and Josef Albers.
Project Category: Public Discussions
Sex in the Event of Happiness
What good is sex? This talk draws on the work of Lauren Berlant, a leading theorist of sexuality, politics, and culture, to think about the place of sex and the erotic in contemporary culture.
From Conflict to Creation – how art can build bridges
We are thrilled to announce an upcoming event that promises to ignite thought-provoking conversations and inspire positive change. Join us for a captivating panel discussion and celebrate International Peace Day 2023.
Behind the Facade: a False Narrative of Art Authenticity
This talk focuses on two particular case studies that represent a fake on the one hand and a forgery on the other, that were both sold in London a few years ago and are now in two of the leading art collections in the world and remain on display.
Homeownership: the rise and fall of public housing
Many countries around the world are now facing serious housing crises where younger generations cannot afford any longer to either rent or buy apartments. What are the driver and consequences of the success of an homeownership ideology? How has it increased social inequalities and segregation?
Dorothea Lange: Documenting Justice
Dorothea Lange is one of the most well-known photographers of the Great Depression. Her photographs documented the catastrophe of economic collapse while also emphasising empathy and community. This talk will explore her Depression era photographs, giving them historical context and developing their political content.
By a Thread. The Ambiguous Ways in which Fashion Advances Social Justice
This talk investigates jointly three series of fashion productions that resonate with three series of artworks. It draws the thin line between tribute, activism and emancipation on the one hand, and human rights washing, cultural appropriation and disrespect for victims, on the other hand.
Unraveling Chinese Family Values: Names and the One-Child Policy
Discover the profound undercurrents of Chinese culture! In this talk we will delve deep into the heart of Chinese societal norms and learn how they have been shaped by the historic one-child policy.
Blood, Guts and Implants: The Role of the Body in Performance Art
The human body in performance art serves as a living canvas and vehicle for profound artistic expression. This talk presents artists who push their bodies to extreme places in the name of art and experimentation; they harness the power of their bodies to communicate narratives, evoke emotions, challenge societal norms, and question the very essence of human existence.
The Stoics on Value
The ancient Stoics have a simple yet compelling view of finding value in a material world. Virtue makes all the difference to our happiness or well-being. Using a range of ancient sources, we will explore and discuss Stoics ideas in much more detail in conversation together.