Open Dimensions for Images of the Futures & Co-creation

The proposed research project investigates how the open approaches of futures, media, arts, and
design (m-a-d) can strengthen society-wide capacities for anticipation and inclusive engagement
with the changing conditions of change. As uncertainty, complexity, and chaos become defining
features of contemporary life, many individuals, communities, and organisations struggle to work
meaningfully with the multiple possibilities that exist for the future. This project responds to that
challenge by exploring the potential of open m-a-d futures practices in a transdisciplinary setting.
Working with a diverse set of societal partners, the research will generate insight into what openness
means in futures and m-a-d work, how it takes shape across different fields, and how it relates to cocreativity
and anticipatory capacity. Over four years the researcher will carry out 3-4 extended, 2-3
bounded, and 5 contained case studies as well as 10 observations of external activities and follow
the five other projects conducted within the research centre as special cases. The collection of all
these different types of case studies spans domains including youth work, artistic (co-)creation,
heritage, urban development, activism, and social innovation. The project will map ecosystems,
document practices, test and develop tools, and co-create futures artefacts and experiences.
The research is organised in modular, iterative and non-sequential work packages for conceptual
framing, participatory fieldwork, methodological tool development, comparative analysis,
dissemination, and valorisation. Outputs include maps, tools, methodological frameworks,
professional training formats, exhibitions and performances, academic publications, an international
conference and integration into curricula across multiple degree programmes. Feedback and
reflection loops with partners and other collaborators ensures real-world resonance and practical
relevance.
By combining practice-based scientific knowledge production, with m-a-d approaches this research
project aims to enhance the quality, legitimacy, and uptake and quality of futures practices in
Flanders and the world.