The University of Jordan (UJ) has announced the establishment of a new research initiative, "Art Beyond Limits," dedicated to advancing the role of visual arts in community empowerment.
This innovative group aims to foster communication and understanding between individuals and communities through the exploration of cross-cultural artistic practices. It seeks to transform physical, psychological, or cultural challenges faced by individuals into opportunities for creativity and interaction through art.
This multidisciplinary team comprises distinguished academics, practising artists, experienced researchers, and talented postgraduate students from diverse fields including visual arts, sociology, psychology, and educational technology, ensuring a holistic and comprehensive approach to research.
The core focus of "Art Beyond Limits" will be to study the profound psychological and social impact of artistic engagement. The research will specifically examine how art-based interventions can contribute to the empowerment of marginalized groups and the promotion of positive social change within communities.
Among the group’s distinguished researchers are Prof. Mohd Fauzi bin Sedon , Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Sustainability, and Creative Industries at Sultan Idris Education University – Malaysia; Dr. Mohammad Bakr Al-Abbas, Department of Visual Arts, School of Arts and Design – University of Jordan; Dr. Huda Alhajjaj, Department of Sociology, School of Arts – University of Jordan; Dr. Imad Adel, Scientific College of Design – Oman; Jordanian visual artist Suheil Baqaeen; Serbian visual artist Gala Čaki; and Postgraduate students Alaa Otoom and Fatima Alashe from the Department of Visual Arts – University of Jordan.
The group is committed to exploring artistic practices in community contexts and studying their psychological and emotional benefits, emphasizing the importance of making art accessible in public spaces and urban communities. This approach aims to engage diverse, art-devoted audiences and enhance the role of art as a medium for dialogue, expression, and human connection.