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

In a world of profound ecological and societal change, the arts are also facing new challenges: How can artistic production become more resource-efficient? What responsibility does artistic practice bear in the context of sustainability? Where have sustainable strategies already been successfully implemented, and where do they reach their limits?This workshop invites participants to critically reflect on the materials, production methods, and content of artistic practice while developing sustainable strategies for their own work. Through selected examples from art history and contemporary art, participants will examine artistic positions, materials, and working methods that promote the conscious use of resources and address processes of social transformation. The workshop is structured into seven thematic modules covering theoretical foundations, historical developments, and contemporary artistic positions, which will be presented and discussed collectively. The course is complemented by exhibition visits, film screenings, and an artist talk, offering diverse perspectives on sustainability in the arts.A central component of the course is a semester-long practical assignment. Students will independently engage with the topics discussed and develop their own artistic or conceptual project. The results will be presented and critically reflected upon at the end of the semester.The workshop also provides space for participants to present their own artistic work and bring individual questions into the discussion. It is intended as a platform for advancing personal artistic projects and as conceptual preparation for the course "How to Exist as an Artist in a World of Changes? – Art and Sustainability in Practice".