Artistic Practices in Exile
This study examines how exile in Switzerland affects Kurdish and Ukrainian artists' self-perception and creativity, focusing on their artistic practices and impact on the Swiss cultural landscape.
Factsheet
- Lead school Bern Academy of the Arts
- Additional schools School of Social Work
- Institute(s) Institute Practices and Theories in the Arts
- Research unit(s) Artistic self-conceptualisations
- Strategic thematic field Thematic field "Caring Society"
- Funding organisation BFH
- Duration (planned) 01.07.2024 - 31.12.2025
- Project management Dr. Darija Davidovic
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Head of project
Dr. Darija Davidovic
Dr. Orhan Kaya
Situation
How does exile in Switzerland influence artistic production? This project examines how Kurdish and Ukrainian artists fleeing war and repression shape their self-image and work in exile. It explores their impact on the Swiss cultural landscape and their interactions with Swiss institutions. The study also considers how factors like class, gender, and race, in addition to exile, influence artistic processes and contributions.
Course of action
At the core of this study are the narratives and perspectives of artists living and working in exile in Switzerland. Through rigorous literature review, supplemented by in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the research aims to capture the richness and diversity of their experiences. By delving into the personal stories, artistic processes, and thematic explorations of these individuals, the study seeks to unravel the myriad ways in which exile shape their artistic productions. Besides, phenomenological-hermeneutic investigation of exemplary artworks, which are placed in relation to the interviews to discuss the influence of flight and migration as well as the exile on aesthetic processes. It is as well essential for our research to establish a postcolonial understanding of exile. Specifically, this involves understanding exile as a complex phenomenon influenced by historical factors such as imperialism, migration, and political oppression. This approach enables a concise yet comprehensive analysis of migration effects on artistic production processes for both Ukrainian and Kurdish artists. The research aims to explore the diverse impacts of exile in Switzerland on the artistic production of Kurdish and Ukrainian artists, serving as a guiding beacon to illuminate how migration and exile influence their artistic expression.
Result
The significance of this research extends beyond academic discourse, aiming to foster deeper cultural understanding and social cohesion. To achieve this, we are organizing workshops that will engage audiences beyond the academic sphere, along with collaborative publications and projects designed with local artists and activists. By bringing together migrant communities, artists, academics, and the broader public, we seek to create spaces for exchange, reflection, and the celebration of diversity. Through these efforts, our research aspires not only to enhance our comprehension of migration and art but also to leverage their transformative potential in building a more inclusive and cohesive community.
