ArtLab Gnesta, Sweden

Socio-Economic and Political Sustainability
Art organisations throughout the country that play an important role for the local community and the field of art are subjected to budget cuts. Pressure is also applied, not least politically, questioning whether art organisations constitute a natural element in the development of society. The demands are high and the support insufficient. How far can these activities be stretched before they snap? Can we reuse the concept of sustainability and together imagine what art organisations require to become sustainable? Do art organisations need to change their working methods to become stronger locally and in society at large?

Sustainability in Relation to the Climate
Human influence on the climate, climate neutrality, climate-impacting emissions, conversions, climate pep talks and climate anxiety are some of the concepts we have grown accustomed to hearing about in the media and in everyday life. What opportunities do art organisations have for creating awareness about individual and societal responsibility for justice and equality in relation to environmental issues? What changes do art organisations need to undergo in order to better meet contemporary climate challenges?

Inspiring lectures and participatory discussion formats will provide participants with the opportunity to address these issues and together map out a way forward.

The Contemporary Art Days Summit 2019 is produced by Public Art Agency in collaboration with Art Lab Gnesta, Grafikens Hus and Södertälje konsthall with support from Södertälje kommun and Sörmland Region.