by Prof. Dr. Mona Schieren / Monika Dorniak This seminar explores the intersections of Lygia Clark's artistic approach with a critical analysis of intergenerational trauma, incorporating the perspectives of writers such as bell hooks, Jacques Rancière, Frantz Fanon, and Marianne Hirsch. It examines how the participatory works of Brazilian artist Clark can inform our understanding of bodily experiences and sensory engagement in relation to trauma transmission. Participants will analyze how Clark's interactive sculptures and wearable art pieces can serve as metaphors for the embodiment of inherited trauma, and link Clark's emphasis on dissolving artist-audience boundaries with four key ideas: Rancière's concept of the emancipated spectator, Hirsch's "prosthetic memories", hooks's holistic and intersectional approach to intergenerational trauma, and Fanon's investigation of the impact of colonial oppression. Rancière's work challenges traditional notions of passive spectatorship, arguing for an "emancipated spectator" who actively interprets and creates meaning. This aligns with Clark's aim to break down barriers between artist and audience, encouraging a more engaged and participatory form of viewership. In this context, the course explores through Hirsch's book "Post-Memory" what role art and culture can play in transmitting traumatic events. The course further explores hooks's emphasis on healing through historical understanding, addressing systemic oppression, fostering community support, and promoting self-reflection, while recognising intersectionality in trauma transmission. Additionally, it examines Fanon's exploration of how colonial oppression perpetuates psychological and cultural trauma across generations, and his advocacy for a sociogenic approach acknowledging socio-political impacts on mental health. By integrating these diverse yet interconnected ideas, the course offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex relationships between art, audience, trauma, and social transformation. As part of this seminar, we plan to organize an excursion to the Lygia Clark Retrospective at the Neue Nationalgalerie in Berlin from 24 to 26 May.