Conference 'Frontlines of Engagement' - Art in Conflict

10 - 13 FEBRUARY 2027, ZURICH
ORGANIZED BY ARTASFOUNDATION, ARTLINK AND ZHDK

In this practice-based and transdisciplinary conference, around 130 artists, researchers, mediators, peacebuilders and development practitioners will come together in Zurich to trace ethical, aesthetic and pratical dimension of art initiatives in fragile contexts and armed conflict. 

Rather than delivering conclusions, we will seek orientation: questions and shared concerns that can carry forward into future work, shaped around three thematic learning spaces:

• Cooperation Beyond Good Intentions: How can artistic cooperation be anchored beyond singular projects? Which ethical and political questions must remain central in such cooperations, and how can we keep sight of how art reshapes relationships and perceptions?
• Art as Mediator in Peace Processes: What becomes possible when art helps shape peace processes rather than merely complementing them?
• Understanding the Gaps Between Practice and Theory: How can we make space in academia and institutional humanitarian and development work for the affective and practice-based knowledge generated through artistic practice?

The conference includes plenary sessions, small-group presentations of art projects, workshops and quiet ‘assembly circles’ where difficult experiences can be shared. Artistic contributions such as installations, performances and readings complement the programme.

➜ Detailed programme and registration

'Frontlines of Engagement' was initiated by artasfoundation and is implemented in partnership with artlink and ZHdK. The conference builds on the long-standing experience of the three partner organisations at the intersection of art, peacebuilding and social change: artasfoundation's art projects and research in conflict-affected regions and its reflective spaces; artlink's sustained support of artists from the Global South and those living in exile or migration; and ZHdK's focus on education and research on art and peacebuilding. The three partners are united in one shared recognition: that art can open new relational and imaginative spaces across divides.