SciArt mission

SciArt was established in 2016, with the objective of triggering innovation in research by catalysing transdisciplinary collaboration between science, art and society. Hosted by the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the European Commission’s in-house science and knowledge service providing independent scientific advice to inform EU policy, JRC SciArt creates the space, the time, and the conditions for scientists, artists and policymakers to come together to exchange, investigate and co-create - with a shared drive to create insights and activities that can meaningfully influence our collective lives.

SciArt process

We broker, curate, and communicate transdisciplinary exchanges among scientists, artists, and policymakers around topics of shared concern. These communities meet to explore, dialogue, experiment, co-create and sometimes disagree. They might discover unexpected affinities in intent, method, and scope despite their differing approaches. They encourage each other to think beyond their usual conceptual schemes and methodological boundaries, applying knowledge and insight to real-world problems, also by incorporating the experiential into theoretical constructs and scientific knowledge into aesthetic practices. More often than not, they co-create beyond their comfort zones, and develop novel ways of understanding, of engaging and of relating. 

SciArt activities

JRC SciArt develops through a rich range of activities, artworks, and experiences born from collaborations at the intersection of art, science, and policy. Our work spans exhibitions such as NaturArchy, transdisciplinary summer schools, art-science residencies, performances, radio shows, installations, and collaborative projects. We also produce catalogues, media archives, and publications that document and reflect on the creative and conceptual processes behind these initiatives.

More than a collection of final outcomes, these projects embody a spirit of experimentation, a safe haven for speculative exploration, testing ideas, and imaginative inquiry. They invite failure as part of discovery and open new pathways for art and science and policymaking to come together in addressing the complex challenges of our times.