Using art as a tool for internal dialogue and reflection to strengthen understanding and external communication

Purpose and goal

The objective with the residency was: "to carry out project and workshops at SVA with the aim of opening up a new kind of internal dialogue and reflection, which could also strengthen external communication." The results have not been measured quantitatively, but the feedback from employees has been extensive and positive. Several employees have described that they have experienced the conversations, lectures, and workshops as a way of thinking that was new to them. Several conversations have taken place between departments. The assessment is that the objective is reached.

Expected results and effects

The project is a start, art will have a stronger position at SVA in the future and hopefully continue to contribute to internal dialogue and reflection. Internal dialogue, which in turn can contribute to understanding, judgment and external communication. For Hästö, her residency has meant invaluable insight into how authorities work and conversations with professionals she would not otherwise have met, experiences of importance for her future work. For Konstfrämjandet Uppland, this experience can lead to similar project in other workplaces.

Planned approach and implementation

During her residency at SVA, artist Johanna Hästö has given lectures and workshops. Further, Hästö has spent time in different parts of the institute and have had conversations with individual employees. The project has highlighted that art is already present in the work at SVA, for example when the gaze is used as a working tool and leads to an inner artistic processing. Various aspects of use of language have been discussed, e.g how language can have a figurative dimension and the use of images in a narrative. The preparatory work has been crucial for the implementation of the project.