Art and Image | Figuration

The Art and Image | Figuration department understands painting as a space of possibility in which representation, corporality, and image politics are renegotiated. Students are encouraged to develop their own forms of (de)figuration as an individual visual language and as a critical attitude toward the world. The department works with an expanded concept of painting that can go beyond classical image carriers.

The weekly class meetings focus on closely examining the work of others—as well as one's own—and analyzing and understanding what is perceived. This creates a space for exchange, reflection, and collaborative thinking. Teaching is supplemented by individual meetings, text readings, excursions, drawing exercises, and presentations.

Anna Schachinger is the department head for the 2025/26 winter semester and the 2026 summer semester.