This year's umbrella theme is Evolution. The intersection of Art, Biology and the Environment offer unique opportunities to visual artists. This innovative summer course, which is already on its fourth edition, will allow non-specialists to acquire theoretical and practical skills in biological and environmental sciences in connection to the visual arts. The Summer School explores the interdisciplinary relationship between art, life and environmental sciences through hands-on exercises, combining theory and practice in an informal environment, e.g.: seminars, debates, visits, and the creation of artworks with biological media. The activities will address issues such as the cultural representations of technology and science, ethical concerns and the evolution of bioart as a cultural phenomenon. One week program with the opportunity to extend the stay for one or two additional weeks to develop an art project in a collaborative environment. The practical component will focus on hands-on exercises in the laboratory, workshop, and within the natural environment. The possibility of transforming abstract concepts into art objects, the collection and selection of organisms for artistic purposes will be highlighted, and, finally, visits to different parts of the natural park, will take place. The course will leave plenty of room for informal activities, and a cultural and social program. The cost will be 690€ for the first week and 590€ for the optional 2 weeks after. The price includes accommodation at Cultivamos Cultura (a farmhouse), meals, tuition and general consumables for the course; from 2th July to 6th July for the first week and 9-13 July for the second week and 16-20 July for the third week (weekends are included between course weeks and will be dedicated to socialising and leisure activities). Faculty: Marta de Menezes, artist, curator, art director of Cultivamos Cultura Luis Graca, MD, PhD, Head of Cellular Immunology Unit and Professor at the University of Lisbon Medical School. Other Invited lecturers will be at the house as well as residents at Cultivamos Cultura.
