How can art contribute to academic education, research, and the development of A Broader Mind? With that question in mind, 26 staff members from various departments at VU Amsterdam came together on November 5 for the first meeting of 'The Power of Art'.
'The Power of Art' is a new collective that explores how art can be given a meaningful and sustainable place within VU Amsterdam. The participants share the belief that art can foster curiosity, critical thinking, and the questioning of assumptions; qualities that are indispensable in an academic environment and for cultivating A Broader Mind.
Inspiring sessions and flash talks
The meeting was opened by Klaas de Zwaan. Then, Saskia van der Vies, professor of biochemistry and chair of the Visual Thinking Strategies Netherlands Foundation, led an interactive session in which participants experienced how viewing art together can contribute to reflection, dialogue, and new insights.
Poet, writer, and songwriter Veronique Efomi also led attendees through a creative session centered on personal reflection and imagination. Participants described the experience as, among other things, “a total surprise,” “gratitude,” and “a wealth of people.”
During a series of short presentations, participants were introduced to existing initiatives in which art and education reinforce one another. They also looked ahead to new opportunities for collaboration, including the agreement between VU Amsterdam and the Gerrit Rietveld Academy that was signed this week.
The meeting concluded with discussions about the collective’s mission, ambitions, and next steps. The outcomes of these discussions will be further developed in the coming period.
Join us!
'The Power of Art' is still in an exploratory phase and invites anyone interested in the connection between art, education, and research to contribute their ideas. Together, the collective is exploring how art can contribute to a richer educational experience, new perspectives, and a broader academic education.
The next meeting is scheduled for April 1, 2027.
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