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Art and science in dialogue: This is how war influences our culture!
Free events on art, heat adaptation and forest fire research will take place in the Botanical Garden of TU Dresden in summer 2025.
Art and science in dialogue: This is how war influences our culture!
The outdoor dialogue format “Meet the luminary under the conifer” will start on June 15, 2026 in the Botanical Garden of the TU Dresden. This exciting series offers visitors the opportunity to exchange ideas with scientists and discuss pressing social issues. Organized by the TU Dresden, all events in June, July and August are free and barrier-free, reports the university.
The first event is dedicated to the role of art in society and its influence on Sri Lanka's identity after a 26-year civil war. Prof. Stefan Horlacher, expert in English literature, will lead the discussion. His book, Contemporary Sri Lankan Literature and Art The Creation of a New Community in the Aftermath of War, which will be published in September, promises to offer further insights into this topic.
Art and War: A Reflection on Society
Wars have historically played a profound role in art production. Artworks that result from conflict not only reflect the reality of war, but also carry emotional messages. In many cases, artists were commissioned by governments or militaries to express power and domination, reinforcing the ambivalent relationship between war and art. Despite the destruction that wars cause, artists have often found new inspiration and created significant works during these times.
The second event of the program, which will take place on July 20, 2025, also plays a significant role in this discussion. Prof. Matthias Mauder will shed light on the effects of extreme heat stress and the role of green infrastructure in improving the microclimate. These issues are particularly relevant given increasing climate change and its challenges.
Finally, on August 17, 2025, research on forest fires will be the focus. Prof. Matthias Forkel, junior professor of environmental remote sensing, explains the role of satellites in the analysis of forest fires and the previously unknown causes of these natural events. This insightful discussion will demonstrate how technological innovations can help prevent future wildfires.
The importance of art in times of crisis
The effects of war on art are diverse. They can lead to both destruction and a flourishing of artistic expression. Artists such as Frida Kahlo and Pablo Picasso created significant works that conveyed political messages during World War II. Additionally, the revival of certain art forms, such as Afghan miniature painting after the fall of the Taliban, has shown how art has the ability to redefine cultural identities.
In order to support art production during and after conflicts, it is essential to support artists by purchasing works and participating in exhibitions. Raising public awareness of the importance of art in times of crisis also plays a key role. In this context, it is crucial that TU Dresden's future events not only serve as a platform for discussions, but also as a source of inspiration for cultural heritage and artistic production in times of change.
The “TUD in Dialogue” initiative, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the Free State of Saxony, offers a valuable opportunity to discuss these important topics in an interactive setting. More information can be found on the TU Dresden website: TU Dresden.
In a world where the impact of conflict on society and art remains unmistakable, the role of art as a medium of reflection and change remains essential.