The Academy of Fine Arts Vienna is launching a doctoral program for research in artistic practice. The new PhD in Practice program is intended to give participants an opportunity to realize their individual research projects in a cooperative environment with a decidedly transdisciplinary and international bent.
In societies increasingly based on economies of "knowledge," it is crucial for contemporary visual artists to discuss and transform their own respective positions as producers, agents, designers, archivists, and conveyors of "knowledge."
The PhD in Practice program of the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna is coordinated by Tom Holert, Silvia Kolbowski, and Johanna Schaffer. It focuses on the consequences of the shifting social status of art and artists by allowing artists in knowledge-based societies to engage in research into these issues. A deliberate emphasis on the epistemological and methodological foundations of the fine arts, its practitioners, and its audiences is a distinguishing feature of the PhD in Practice program.
The study program is designed for a duration of four years (240 ECTS credits). During this time the participants will develop and implement their projects analytically and experimentally in coordination with the academic and artistic team of co-participants and faculty.
Transdisciplinary modes of working in artistic production will be fostered. Importantly, the ability to write texts, and to conceive, organize, document, and carry out independent research will be developed by supporting program participants in a networked, international and transdisciplinary environment (The Center for Art/Knowledge/CAK).
The participants have access to the facilities and resources of the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna and to the institutions and people that form the broader and expanding network of the Center for Art/Knowledge and the future Doctorate School of the Academy. Participants will be given the means to pursue and develop dissertation work resulting in an artistic project displaying a strong emphasis on methodological reflexivity and documentation. Moreover, participants are expected to take an active part in organizing the program (coordinating workshops, guest lectures, conferences, exhibitions, screenings, etc.).
Entry requirements
Requirements for admission to the PhD in Practice program are: a degree (Magister, MA or diploma) from a recognized university, and the submission of a portfolio and a written project proposal. Applicants who are already engaged in an artistic or academic career are encouraged to apply.
Applications (to be written in German or English) are to be submitted by March 1, 2010 (via post or email).
