How to Exist as an Artist in a World of Changes? - Theory for Art & Sustainability

In a time of profound ecological and societal transformation, the arts are also confronted with new challenges: How can artistic production become more resource-conscious? What responsibility does artistic practice carry in the context of sustainability? Where are sustainable strategies already being implemented convincingly—and where do they reach their limits?This workshop invites participants to critically reflect on artistic materials, production methods, and content, and to develop sustainable alternatives. Drawing on examples from art history and contemporary practice, we will examine strategies, materials, and artistic positions that aim toward a responsible use of resources and broader societal transformation.Structured in seven thematic blocks, the workshop introduces theoretical foundations, historical developments, and current artistic positions, which will be discussed collectively. Presentations and group discussions are complemented by film screenings and exhibition visits within the framework of the Climate Biennale 2026, as well as a conversation with a guest artist. A central component of the workshop is a practical semester project, the results of which will be presented at the end of the course. In addition, there will be space to bring in participants’ own artistic work and individual research interests. The workshop also serves as a source of inspiration for the further development of projects within the course “How to Exist as an Artist in a World of Changes? – Art and Sustainability in Practice.”