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A presenter from Norwich University of the Arts addressing an audience in Milan. The audience is seated, some are clapping. A screen displays a "Thank you!" slide with a QR code. The room has a high wooden ceiling and large windows.

Norwich joins global conversation on creativity at ELIA Biennial 2024

Norwich University of the Arts’ Dean of Education, Professor Hilary Carlisle, recently took part in the ELIA Biennial Conference 2024 in Milan, held from 20 to 23 November.

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Hosted by NABA, Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, the conference focused on the theme “Arts Plural”, exploring how artistic intelligence can play a role in addressing global challenges.

The ELIA Biennial brings together arts and design educators, artists, and practitioners from around the world. This year’s conference examined artistic intelligence as the capacity for perception, insight, creativity, and decision-making that has shaped human progress. Discussions addressed how this concept can help tackle critical issues and support inclusive, sustainable futures through arts education.

Professor Carlisle delivered a breakout session titled “We Teach Creativity: The Case for Critical Creativity over Artistic Intelligence” In her session, she advocated” Critical Creativity” as an inclusive term that emphasises reflection, curiosity, and risk-taking. She challenged traditional notions associated with intelligence and advocated for nurturing resilience and confidence through staged learning.

Drawing on Norwich University of the Arts Creative Learning Strategy, Carlisle highlighted how the university supports emerging creatives by focusing on growth and adaptability rather than expecting fully developed practitioners. The session encouraged participants to reflect on their own practices and consider how critical creativity can be applied in their contexts.

Reflecting on the conference, Professor Carlisle said,”It was an honour to represent Norwich University of the Arts. The theme of ‘Arts Plural’ aligns closely with our values at Norwich, where we believe in the power of creativity to drive change. The discussions and ideas shared at the Biennial will provide valuable insights to our students, staff, and the wider community.”

The event included workshops, artistic interventions, and discussions on the future of art and design education. Keynote speakers addressed issues such as sustainability, technology, and ethics, while attendees connected to share ideas and explore potential collaborations.

For more information about the ELIA Biennial Conference 2024, visit the ELIA Biennial website.

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