November, 2023
Kilowatt (Bologna) & Quo Artis (Barcelona)
ABOUT
Two focus groups were organized in November & December 2023 to align with the artist-residency hosting countries and partners: Kilowatt (Italy) and Quo Artis (Spain). These sessions brought together 26 participants, and were co-organized by Quo Artis, the University of Barcelona (UB), and Kilowatt, in collaboration with local invited guests.
To foster meaningful engagement, each session was led by a subject matter expert and conducted in the native language of the respective country. A dedicated facilitator compiled the discussions into reports, which became key resources in shaping the next phases of the project.
Exploring the Future of Food and Agriculture
Tilling Roots & Seeds brought together experts from diverse disciplines to envision possible futures for food and agriculture.
As part of this effort, two focus groups were convened to reflect on key challenges and opportunities shaping our food systems. Participants were invited to explore three fundamental questions:
How will our diet evolve in relation to agriculture? What will we be eating in 2050?
Who will be the farmers of the future? Who will feed us?
What role can cultural agents—such as artists—play in shaping agriculture?
Focus Group - Spain
The focus group highlighted concerns about industrialized food production, soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and the disconnect between science, policy, and public awareness.
Participants explored regenerative agriculture, urban farming, and community-based models as sustainable alternatives, stressing the need to revive local food systems.
Art was recognized as a tool to challenge narratives, inspire new perspectives on food production, and influence policy.
Finally, the discussion emphasized the need to redefine sustainability to account for finite resources and long-term ecological balance.
Focus Group - Italy
The focus group explored the transition toward regenerative food systems, emphasizing the need for local, seasonal, and circular production while reducing reliance on industrialized agriculture.
Discussions highlighted economic incentives for local markets, stronger worker protections, and education on sustainable food practices as key drivers of change.
Art was recognized as a powerful medium for reimagining agricultural practices, fostering cultural connections, and inspiring alternative futures.
Ultimately, participants stressed the importance of transdisciplinary collaboration to reshape food systems, integrating ecological balance, social equity, and cultural transformation.
