Ooaf

The Experimental Observatory on Artistic Freedom (OoAF) is dedicated to the preservation of, and advocacy for, the freedom of artistic expression. Composed of a consortium of researchers, professors, policymakers, artists and designers, the organization operates at the vanguard of creative liberties. The Observatory was initiated by the Council of Europe in the wake of the 70^th anniversary of the European Cultural Convention with the mission to serve as a bastion for artistic freedom in order to cultivate environments where artistic production can be fostered, created, and disseminated without coercion, encumbrance or fear of reprisal. Through research, advocacy, and collaborative partnerships, we endeavor to fortify the foundations of artistic freedom, recognizing its indispensable role in nurturing pluralistic and democratic societies. 

The Observatory is an interdisciplinary consortium of diverse expertise spanning the realms of art, law, sociology, education and political science, which affords a holistic perspective to address the nuances and multifaceted challenges related to artistic freedom. We employ strategic partnerships across a diversity of fields to expand awareness of, and to offer support to, those who suffer from creative discrimination, censorship, and institutional neglect. Governed by independent artists and curators, OoAF places the artist at the epicenter of its operations. It is our conviction that the insights and perspectives of creators themselves should inform and shape the organizational and policy endeavours.

In a context of continued threats to artistic liberty, OoAF stands resolute as a beacon of advocacy and a bulwark for creative production. It is our collective endeavor to engender an environment wherein knowledge and creativity thrive together unhindered and undiminished. 

About

Founded by artist and editor-in-chief David Liver, and curator and researcher Michael Kaethler, The Experimental Observatory on Artistic Freedom represents a convergence of creative endeavours and scholarly rigor related to the current state of artistic freedom.  

The Experimental Observatory is forged in partnership with the Council of Europe, an institution dedicated to upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across the European continent. This alliance underscores The Experimental Observatory’s commitment to leveraging institutional support and fostering cross-sectoral collaborations to effectuate meaningful change in the realm of artistic freedom.

Directors

David Liver & Michael Kaethler

Scientific Committee

Dr. Kata Krasznahorkai, Prof. Massimo Mazzone, Prof. Catherine Marcangeli, Dr. Peter Lastwin, Prof. Frank Moulaert, Adrian Vickery Hill, Dagmara Stephan, Dr. Laurens Van Der Cruyssen, Prof. Christophe Domino.

Contact: info@ooaf.art

Video credit: Heimat, 2022 Lesia Pcholka. Music Olga Anna Markowska