Meredith Monk: Art pioneer becomes visiting professor at Folkwang!

Meredith Monk: Art pioneer becomes visiting professor at Folkwang!

With the appointment of Meredith Monk as Pina Bausch Professor, the Folkwang University of the Arts has set another milestone in its commitment to innovative art and interdisciplinary teaching. Monk will teach at the renowned university in the winter semester of 2025/26 and offer the “Dancing Voice/Singing Body” course. This course consists of three phases and is aimed at students from a wide range of disciplines. Participation in the final presentation is expected in spring 2026, which will create an exciting interplay of theory and practice.

A pioneer of extended vocal technique and interdisciplinary performance, Meredith Monk has received numerous awards throughout her career, including the MacArthur Fellowship and the National Medal of Arts. Her artistic work began in 1968 when she founded The House, an interdisciplinary performance group. Since then she has made significant contributions to contemporary art, whose international performances in major venues are appreciated. Folkwang University sees its appointment as an opportunity to bring students together with leading artists and to expand the creative possibilities of performance.

The Pina Bausch Professorship

The Pina Bausch Professorship was launched in the winter semester of 2022/23 to offer international artists a platform to work with students. It is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia. The professorship has previously attracted well-known artists such as Marina Abramović, the first holder, and Miles Greenberg. The development of new working methods and the implementation of interdisciplinary research projects are the central goals of this professorship, while students work with artists from different areas.

Salomon Bausch, the founder of the Pina Bausch Foundation, emphasizes the need for this interdisciplinary approach and sees the professorship as a valuable enrichment for creativity and artistic diversity at Folkwang University. Holger Zebu Kluth, the rector of Folkwang University, and Ina Brandes, the Minister of Culture of North Rhine-Westphalia, also expressed positive opinions about Monk's appointment and the associated opportunities for students.

Awards and recognitions

Meredith Monk's artistic work is also recognized by international institutions. In October 2025 she will be awarded the Golden Lion for her life's work at the Venice Music Biennale. Her first European retrospective, "Meredith Monk. Calling", will take place from autumn 2023 to spring 2024. Through her diverse successes and commitment, Monk is considered a significant inspiration for the next generation of artists.