Aalto ARTS Summer School 2024
Introduction
Summer School on the Theme of “Embodied Water” with an Artistic Approach: exploring the Digital Frontier in the immersive landscape of the digital frontier, our Summer School aims to harness the power of art and technology to address water-related societal challenges. Focused on interdisciplinary collaboration, the program will explore water issues through the lenses of Data Visualisation, Game Design, Film, and AR-VR Mixed-Reality, all integrated with AI.
KEY COMPONENTS WE AIM TO ACHIEVE:
Interdisciplinary Data Visualisation
Participants will learn to transform complex water data into compelling visual narratives, fostering a deeper understanding of water dynamics and environmental impact.
Game Design for Water Education
Using gamification principles, participants will develop interactive and educational games that raise awareness about water conservation, pollution, and sustainable usage.
Film as a Catalyst for Change
Exploring the art of storytelling, participants will create short films that communicate the significance of water-related issues to a broader audience, inspiring action and advocacy.
AR-VR Mixed-Reality Exploration
Immersive experiences will be crafted, allowing participants to visualise and interact with virtual water environments, enhancing empathy and understanding.
AI Integration for artistic expression
Participants will explore how AI can contribute to water related topics, utilising AI tools for artistic expression.
symposium
The theme, Embodied water, addresses societal challenges related to water, approached from interdisciplinary perspectives of art, film, and digitalization. The goal is to raise awareness of both global and local water issues. We also aim to redefine our understanding of water, viewing it not just as a natural resource but also as a catalyst for social change.
SOCIAL PROGRAMME
In the middle of intensive studies, we want to offer you a chance to spend a moment in a Finnish forest and archipelago. Naturally, there is chance to get to experience sauna. Feel free to plan your own activities or just enjoy the nature and summer eve by swimming in the lake, sitting by a bonfire or just walking in the forest/island together with other students.
COURSE SCHEDULE
PRE-COURSE ACTIVITIES
11.6. Symposium introducing the course topic
12.6.–17.8. Pre-course online assignments & workshops
SUMMER SCHOOL
18.8. Arrival and get-together
19.8.–30.8. Workshop at Aalto University campus
24.8.–25.8. Social programme
30.8. Project presentations and closing
AFTER-COURSE ASSIGNMENT
Finishing online material for wider audience.
COURSE SUMMARY
APPLYING February–April 2024
CREDITS 6 ECTS
FORMAT Online / on site
ON SITE 18.–30.8.2024
LOCATION Aalto University campus in Espoo, Finland
DURATION 2-week intensive + pre and post assignments
ELIGIBILITY MA degree and late & BA degree students
PROGRAM FEE 200 € (program fee doesn’t apply to Aalto students)
ACCOMMODATION at Aalto’s expense in Helsinki city center
STUDY FIELDS Game Design, Data Visualisation, Film making, Storytelling, Concept design, Augmented Reality (AR) Virtual Reality (VR) or Mixed Reality (XR), AI Tools
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
AND OUTCOMES
Holistic Understanding
Students will gain a holistic perspective on sustainable development and systemic understanding in the context concerning water issues by merging their scientific knowledge with artistic expression.
Exploration of New Technologies
Understanding and exploring possibilities to combine AI, AR, VR and XR technologies with perspectives and tools from different design disciplines (games, narratives, data visualisation, film) to create engaging, meaningful, and interactive experiences.
Creative Solutions and Expression
The interdisciplinary approach through research and conceptual thinking will encourage innovative solutions and artistic expression to water-related challenges.
Patroadvocacy through art
Artistic creations will serve as powerful tools for advocacy, sparking conversations and driving societal change.
Project management
Successfully ideating, planning, and managing a project as a part of a multidisciplinary and multicultural group. Creating together a presentable outcome for an exhibition.
Aalto University’s (FI)
2024 partner schools:
Politecnico di Milano (IT)
New York University, Game Center
Tisch School of The Arts (NY, US)
Technológico de Monterrey (MX)
University of Lusófona (PT)
National Institute of Design (IN)
Singapore University of Technology and Design, SUTD (SG)
National Film and Television School (UK)
University of Technology Delft (NL)
The New School, Parsons School of Design (NY, US)
Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IR)