The Second Symposium of the Arts + Creative PD domain was held on June 23, 2023, at the Utrecht University of the Arts. The event was a showcase of artistic research and brought together professors, policymakers, artists, researchers, and creative enthusiasts from fifteen universities of applied sciences. The symposium was highly anticipated and created an electric atmosphere, fostering engaging discussions, enlightening presentations by the first eight PD candidates within the domain, and captivating panel sessions. The event started with a keynote by Natalie Loveless after a warm welcome by Heleen Jumelet, President of the Executive Board of the University of the Arts, Utrecht.
Keynote Presentation by Natalie Loveless
The symposium began with an exciting keynote address by Natalie Loveless. Against the backdrop of HKU’s creative ambience, Loveless delivered a thought-provoking talk titled “Research-Creation as Daily Practice.” Attendees were enthralled as Loveless explored the intricate relationship between research and artistic creation, offering insights into how artists incorporate research methodologies into their daily creative practices. The keynote was followed by an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to engage with Loveless and delve deeper into the subject matter.
Presentation of the PD Research Projects
The symposium provided a platform for presenting the first eight PD (Professional Doctorate) research projects. As each presenter shared their unique research, attendees were treated to a variety of artistic research, demonstrating its diversity and multidisciplinary nature.
Break
During the break, participants connected with fellow attendees, exchanged ideas, and expanded their networks.
Panel Discussion on Quality Dimensions and Requirements of Artistic Research
Resuming the symposium, an panel discussion led by Liesbet van Zoonen took place, with Jeroen Boomgaard, Laura Cull Ó Maoilearca and Natalie Loveless. They discussed how official quality criteria and requirements of the PD can be articulated with the particular critical and interrogative attitude of artists and designers. This formed the kick off for ongoing discussions among candidates, their supervisors and the wider field about worldclass artistic and design research.
Conclusion
The symposium turned out as a huge celebration of the PD Arts + Creative. Attendees went home with joy and inspirations, fresh insights and new connections. The symposium’s success highlighted the need and urgency for a doctoral level research program within the arts and creativity domain.