Art and Science in Dialogue: Reflections from the Theatre in Palm Residency

The Theatre in Palm residency, organized by Espronceda Institute of Art & Culture, has established itself as a space for interdisciplinary exchange, where art, science, and critical thinking converge to address some of today’s most pressing challenges. Within this framework, two talks stood out for their depth and relevance, offering fresh perspectives on ecosocial sustainability and the complex interactions between marine ecosystems and human health:

Oceans and Human Health, delivered by Dr. Josep Lloret, exploring the connections between oceans and human well-being.

Institutional Eco-logics, presented by Dr. Christian Alonso, focusing on how art institutions can act as agents of change from an ecosocial perspective.

These presentations enriched the conceptual framework of the residency while opening pathways to reflect on the role of art as a catalyst for transformation in an interconnected world.

Oceans and Human Health: Benefits and Risks of Marine Ecosystems

Dr. Josep Lloret, a researcher at the Institut de Ciències del Mar (CSIC), introduced the concept of Oceans and Human Health, an interdisciplinary field investigating how marine ecosystems influence human health and well-being. Through practical examples, he addressed both the benefits that oceans provide—such as healthy food and bioactive compounds—and the risks posed by pollution and climate change.

Dr. Lloret’s approach highlighted the importance of preserving marine ecosystems, not only for their natural richness but also for their direct impact on human lives. His talk invited attendees to reflect on how our individual and collective actions are shaping the future of the seas and, consequently, our own health.

About the Speaker:

Dr. Josep Lloret is a marine biologist and researcher specializing in the intersection of marine ecology and human health. He has served as a professor at the University of Girona and as an associate researcher at leading institutions such as the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (USA) and the Institut de Ciències del Mar (CSIC). His work focuses on the therapeutic benefits of the sea and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems, with extensive publications in scientific journals and interdisciplinary projects.

Institutional Eco-logics: Sustainability in Art Institutions

In his talk, Dr. Christian Alonso, director of La Panera Art Centre, explored how cultural institutions can adopt ecosocial logics to integrate sustainable practices into their programming. Drawing inspiration from the work of philosopher Félix Guattari, he argued that art can be a powerful tool for rethinking our relationship with the environment, fostering inclusive dialogues and transformative actions.

Dr. Alonso illustrated his talk with practical examples from exhibition cycles addressing themes like hydrological feminism and queer ecologies, demonstrating how institutions can not only narrate global challenges but also act as agents of meaningful change.

About the Speaker:

Dr. Christian Alonso is a researcher and curator with a focus on the intersections of art, ecology, and cultural policies. As director of La Panera Art Centre, he has developed programs promoting ecosocial artistic practices. His career includes a strong academic foundation, with a PhD in Cultural Studies from the University of Barcelona, and an outstanding trajectory as a curator in international projects exploring the social implications of art in contexts of environmental and cultural crises.

A Space for Critical Thinking and Creative Action

The Theatre in Palm residency has fostered an environment for the exchange of ideas that connect seemingly disparate disciplines. These talks serve as a reminder of the crucial role of art and science in building a more conscious and sustainable future.

What other interdisciplinary initiatives can help us tackle global challenges through an integrative lens?

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