opus they

Rationale and objectives

All humanity is facing a series of interconnected global crises: ecological problems, geopolitical instability and technological challenges. Human beings have tended to define the natural world as something outside themselves, something that can be dominated by human technologies for the benefit of humanity. The situation is unsustainable, and finding ways of collectively challenging anthropocentric perspectives has become more crucial than ever. 'opus they' is intended as a research platform where artists, architects, designers and others can contribute to an integrative approach to addressing global crises, through processes that promote cooperation and ethical action. It is inspired by the need to think beyond human-centred issues and the need to reconfigure traditional understandings of matter and agency. What is required is a more relational form of creative practice that decentres the subjectivity of human inhabitants and draws attention to communal processes of becoming and the fluid nature of subjectivity. The self is reconceptualised in relation to the broader ecological and technological contexts, promoting ethical responsibility and creative potential in a world in flux. The arts can play a crucial role in dissolving the artificial boundaries that people often construct between themselves and the nonhuman world. Art can reveal an uncanny sense of reality that helps people seek new modes of thinking and feeling that address their relationship with the world and with others.  

'opus they' looks into ways of using art and design to address anthropocentric perspectives and improving collective creative platforms, encouraging interdisciplinary collaborations. It seeks to foster awareness about interconnected global challenges and decentralised, flexible and participatory forms of labour that promote democratic dialogue and decision-making strategies.