Art & Society – A SPARK Conversation

Photo by © John Dutton

IT WAS A PLEASURE - THANK YOU FOR THE INTERVIEW

Rethinking Art & Society – My Conversation with SPARK Art Vienna

How can art foster resilience, challenge established ways of thinking, and create new forms of connection? What role can artistic research play in shaping a more inclusive and empathetic society?

I recently had the pleasure of discussing these questions with SPARK Art Vienna in an in-depth conversation about my artistic practice, research, and teaching at the University of Applied Arts Vienna.

The interview offers insights into my personal journey as an artist, from early experiences with painting and my formative encounters with Cézanne's work in southern France to my ongoing exploration of art as a means of generating knowledge, fostering dialogue, and encouraging social transformation.

A central focus of our conversation is DEMEDARTS (Dementia.Empathy.Education.Arts.), the artistic research project exploring how participatory art and speculative design can challenge conventional perceptions of dementia and ageing. Through individually designed rollators, interactive installations, creative workshops, and the Archive of Confusion, the project demonstrates how artistic engagement can foster dignity, self-expression, and meaningful connections, even when verbal communication becomes difficult.

We also explore the growing importance of Art & Health, including the potential of creative participation to support mental well-being, strengthen resilience, and counter social isolation. I reflect on why artistic experiences should be accessible to everyone and why art must be valued not only for its potential therapeutic benefits, but also for the joy, freedom, and opportunities for participation it offers.

Another important aspect of the interview is the relationship between artistic freedom, education, and social responsibility. Drawing on my experience as a professor, I discuss how artistic research, participatory approaches, and interdisciplinary collaboration encourage students to question established perspectives, engage with complex societal challenges, and develop their own critical and creative positions.

Ultimately, our conversation returns to a conviction that continues to shape my work:

Art is not merely something we create or observe. It is a way of thinking, communicating, and discovering possibilities together. 

Its transformative potential lies not only in the finished artwork, but also in the encounters, questions, and experiences that emerge throughout the creative process.

My sincere thanks to SPARK Art Vienna and Dania Kwizda-Dejanoff for this thoughtful exchange and the opportunity to share my perspectives on the intersections of art, research, education, and society.

>> Read the full interview here