Permacultures of Care

This book reimagines what art institutions might become through the lens of three permaculture design principles—observe and interact, obtain a yield, and use and value diversity.

Structured in three parts, the book moves between theory, case studies, and in-depth conversations with artists, curators, and collectives who are already reshaping institutional practices from within. Part 1, Observe and interact: transecting current multiple crises in art institutions, examines the limitations of European funding frameworks and their effects on institutional behaviour. Part 2, Obtain a yield: networks of relationships, resources, and practices, looks at how institutions might cultivate forms of reciprocity and resilience that extend beyond economic value. Part 3, Use and value diversity: imagi(ni)ng alternative narratives and futures, embraces diversity and multiplicity as conditions for institutional renewal.

Rather than providing conclusions, this book invites readers to imagine and co-create the art institutions of the future—fluid, diverse, and deeply intertwined with the ecosystems in which they exist. It will appeal to scholars and upper-level students of cultural studies, social change, cultural management and policy, gender studies, race and racism, and ecology and environmental studies.