Facts

Contact person:
Marika Hedemyr
Financer:
  • The Crafoord Foundation
Responsible at MaU:
Kristina Lindström
Project members at MaU:
Time frame:
01 August 2025 - 31 July 2027
Faculty/department:
Research environment :
Research subject:

Project description

This project takes as a starting point that one of the greatest challenges facing humanity is our growing inability to collectively imagine alternatives to the status quo. Current imaginaries of possible futures tend to focus on technological optimism, instrumental and quick-fix solutions on the one hand, and a pessimistic dystopianism on the other. There is a pressing need to move beyond polarizing dichotomies and instead develop approaches that can enable us to think beyond business-as-usual, especially in relation to climate change and technological developments. To do this, we need formats in which these complex issues can be critically and creatively engaged with.

This two-year postdoctoral reseach project will explore the potential of site-specific mixed reality (MR) performances – a form of immersive theatre – as a format that can support critical imagination and make change imaginable. A practice-based research methodology is used, which involves artistic and technical experimental prototyping in collaboration with artists, technologists and audiences. Through three design phases—exploring, creating, and sharing—we will develop MR performances that address the interconnectedness of humans, technology and planet earth through water and air. New knowledge will be developed on how the concepts of embodiment, site-specificity and mixed reality contribute to critical imagination.

The results will include both theoretical outcomes (methods and concepts) and artistic physical outcomes (site-specific performances), shared through academic publications and public events. The project responds to calls for research to revitalize imaginative capacities. It contributes timely practical and theoretical knowledge that can expand the work by scholars working with issues of how to imagine and create just, sustainable and inclusive futures.

The project is carried out by PhD Marika Hedemyr in collaboration with University Lecturer Kristina Lindström, co-director of Malmö Research Centre for Imagining and Co-Creating Futures (ICF).