Design+Science Summer School 2024: Subversive realities
Date: 15.–19. July 2024
The fourth edition of the Design+Science Summer School, organized by UL ALUO, PiNA, and partners, explored the concept of "Subversive Realities" in 2024. The event brought together 21 participants from around the world to challenge established social and technological systems through the fusion of design thinking and scientific methods.
The Concept of Subversive Realities
In the context of the 2024 program, "Subversive Realities" was treated not merely as a theoretical term, but as an active tool for change. The theme was based on the premise that our current social, technological, and environmental structures are often rigid and outdated, requiring them to be "subverted" or disrupted from within.
- Questioning the Self-Evident: Participants explored how art and design can break established patterns of thinking regarding climate change, capitalism, and digital privacy.
- Technology as Resistance: Instead of accepting technology (including AI) solely as a tool for efficiency, participants used it as a medium to create alternative narratives and "hack" the systems that limit us.
- The Power of Speculative Design: Using scientific data, groups designed "what if" scenarios that seemed impossible at first glance but served as critiques of the present (e.g., imagining a society that is not based on economic growth).
- Scientific Rigor and Artistic Freedom: Subversion emerged from a dual approach: science provided facts and analysis, while design contributed the visual and sensory power to make these realities tangible and accessible to the general public.
The goal of exploring these realities was to empower individuals to stop being passive observers of the future and instead become its active (and occasionally rebellious) co-authors.
Program Highlights
- Interactive Lectures: Experts from various fields—artists, scientists, and theorists—shared insights into subversive practices.
- Group Work: Participants were divided into three interdisciplinary groups to develop final projects under expert mentorship.
- Fieldwork and Excursions: The program included visits to locations that served as practical case studies or inspiration, such as Krško.
- Final Presentation: The week concluded with a showcase of innovative concepts born from seven days of intensive collaboration.
The Design+Science Summer School once again proves that the intersection of art and science is essential for addressing the complex challenges of our time and fostering critical thinking in future generations of creators.
More information: https://www.designscience.school/2024
