ASAD at UArctic Congress 2026: Advancing Sustainable Arctic Futures Through Art

The UArctic Chair and leader of the ASAD network, Maria Huhmarniemi, presented the Observation of Change project, which explored the integration of art and science in ecological restoration in Norway’s Junkerdal National Park. Addressing the spread of non-native spruce in mountain birch ecosystems, the project brought together artists, scientists, and park managers. Through artistic and transdisciplinary approaches, the initiative communicated biodiversity research, addressed the emotional and ethical dimensions of restoration, and supported the decolonization of nature. A touring exhibition demonstrated how art can deepen public understanding of invasive species removal and ecological change.

Professor Bjørn Willy Åmo (Nord University) presented the UArctic-funded Art for Arctic Business project, developed in collaboration with the ASAD network. His presentation focused on a cross-disciplinary master’s-level course bringing together business and fine art students from Norway, Iceland, and Finland. Working in international teams within an art-as-a-service framework, students developed entrepreneurial skills through project-based learning. The results highlight the value of integrating arts and business education in fostering agency, collaboration, and context-sensitive entrepreneurial competence in Arctic settings.

In addition, Professor Mirja Hiltunen (University of Lapland) and Maria Huhmarniemi presented work on intergenerational Arctic art education developed. Their presentation emphasized project-based learning, collaboration with local communities, and pedagogical approaches that foreground decolonization and intergenerational dialogue. By bringing together youth, Elders, and knowledge holders, these practices strengthen inclusion, cultural responsiveness, and community resilience, offering concrete pathways toward sustainable Arctic futures. This kind of Arctic art education is strogly developed in the ASAD-network.