University of Tromsø
Faculty of fine arts, institute for contemporary art and creative writing.
The Academy of Contemporary Art aims to educate artists on a high professional level and
contribute to new expertise in the Field of contemporary art.
The Academy is located in Tromsø, North Norway, beyond the Arctic Circle. Since its early
days, the town has served as a focal point in the culturally diverse circumpolar area. In this
setting, the Academy of Contemporary Art aspires to develop new forms of artistic
practice. What is called for here and in the world are exploratory, audacious and critical
contemporary artists with sensitivity of context. The Academy of Contemporary Art seeks
to be an innovative center of art. The size and character of Tromsø makes it an ideal
setting for a committed and active presence. The academic and cultural establishments of
the town form important points of engaged presence.
Rooted in local and regional conditions, and understanding of the complexity of place, lies
the potential for a global orientation. The Academy wants to be a forum for students and
staff, working in, and gaining experience from, the dynamic interplay between local and
international contexts.
The studies at the Academy promote self-development through social engagement,
collaborations, and insight in fundamental analytical and communication tools.
The Academy of Contemporary Art asks from the students a considerable degree of
independence as well as skills, orientation, articulation and project management. An
organizational structure which is fundamentally extroverted, mobile and flexible will
ensure student impact and opportunities for artistic development.
Updated February 2013
Learning by Doing: Reflections on Setting Up a New Art Academy
Article written by Åsa Sonjasdotter and Nicolas Siepen.
