Design and the Posthumanist Perspective
This education has a focus on sustainability. The teacher has created the course or program to fit into at least one of our 10 sustainability criteria. For you as a student, the sustainability label means guidance, quality assurance, and a guarantee that courses or programs contain a pronounced perspective on sustainability.
Summary
This is an advanced level course where you will explore what posthumanist and non-anthropocentric perspectives can show and do in a design context. For instance, what does it mean to pay attention not only to human stakeholders but also to non-human beings? What happens when an object is being “subjectified”? How can we challenge the dualist way of thinking that governs the modern Western world?
About
During the course, you will develop a project in the intersection between your interests, your artistic tools and design methods, and theory, concepts and references from posthumanist discourses. The prerequisites for your own project will be presented at the start of the course, so please keep in mind not to apply with a too” ready” project idea. The course is aimed at designers and related disciplines, such as architects and visual artists.
In your own project, you will critically examine how design and the posthumanist perspective can affect issues relating to environmental sustainability. These include the (over)exploitation of the earth's resources/gifts, the maintenance of viable ecosystems, interspecies justice, how norms affect the relationship between humans and the environment, and how design influences people's impact on the environment.
The assessment consists of both a presentation where you discuss the visual and material outcomes of your project, and a short written assignment.
Teaching takes place through seminars, lectures, workshops, and tutorials. The course is given in English and consists of seminars, lectures, workshops and individual and group supervision. The course runs throughout the spring, with meetings one evening every two weeks (probably Tuesdays) including three afternoon sessions..
Apply in three steps
1. Apply to the course at universityadmissions.se. Deadline October 16, 2023.
2. Submit your portfolio in SlideRoom. Deadline October 23, 2023.
3. Submit documentation proving you meet the entry requirements of the course on universityadmissions.se. Deadline December 1, 2023.
Your portfolio must contain:
1. Motivation letter - Briefly describe why you want to take part in the course “Design and the Posthumanist Perspective”. 1500-3000 characters including spaces.
2. Provide 3-5 images of previous projects plus short texts that describe the projects. Use the portfolio to show both tools and methods, as well as your interest in the more-than-human.
Your application must be anonymous. Please do not include your name or contact details anywhere in this material.
Course sessionsThe course runs throughout the spring, with meetings one evening every two weeks (probably Tuesdays).
Prerequisites and selection
Requirements
At least 180 ECT credits within Design, Fine Arts or equivalent.
Selection
The selection is based on submitted work samples.
