Philippe Van Cauteren Debates Art and Society at Great Artists on Campus

The 3rd edition of the Great Artists on Campus conference, promoted by Lusófona University - Lisbon University Centre through the School of Communication, Architecture, Arts, and Information Technologies (ECATI), featured the distinguished presence of Philippe Van Cauteren, a prominent figure in the international art scene. The event was part of the Audiovisual Week programme, providing a privileged space for reflection on the impact of contemporary art on society.

With a remarkable career that includes co-curating the Belgian Pavilion at the 55th Venice Biennale and curating the Iraqi Pavilion at the 56th edition, Philippe Van Cauteren, currently the artistic director of S.M.A.K. – Museum of Contemporary Art in Ghent, Belgium, has been a key promoter of intercultural dialogue through art. His work involves curating international exhibitions that celebrate geographical and cultural diversity, promoting emerging artists and consolidating art as a tool for questioning and social change.

During his visit to Portugal, Van Cauteren shared his critical and in-depth perspective on the role of contemporary art, addressing 11 essential reflections that shape his thinking and practice. He highlighted the significance of museums as active agents in cultural construction, not merely as spaces for artistic preservation but as drivers of innovation, education, and social transformation.

The event provided an enriching experience for students, professors, and art enthusiasts, reinforcing the importance of interaction between art, academia, and society. Once again, the conference established itself as a space for reflection on the ability of art to shape perceptions, inspire change, and transcend boundaries.

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Text
Moisés da Silva

Video (Coverage)
Renato Costa and Moisés da Silva

Video (Editing)
Renato Costa