Introduction

The ‘CREATING A CONTEXT’ Erasmus Intensive Programme (IP) brings together postgraduate Fine Art and Architect students from five European Universities to collaborate on new innovative artworks and spatial solutions. The progamme will take place in Bologna, Italy  between March 18th – April 1st 2012.

Using the concept of an international ‘biennale’, the curriculum will emulate a ‘real’ professional context. The students, working in small cross-disciplinary and transnational groups will be invited to respond to a specific site. This practice led approach will be embedded in a theoretical framework that enables a critical discussion and understanding of European art and architecture production and exhibition practice.

Based in Bologna, no one participating university will host the project directly. This offers the chance for project based learning, facilitating creative solutions in a real, new and unfamiliar environment for all.

The IP focuses on key issues that are impossible to address within a customary academic context and involves a number of challenges with regard to art and architecture production and dissemination in an international context. The collaboration with Neon Gallery and the city of Bologna will provide opportunities for creative, entrepreneurial relationships and allow the students to become part of a European network of emerging creative professionals.