Those who are part of the UA community are not limited to studying, researching, or coop- erating. They have access to a vibrant and regular offering of cultural and artistic activities that transform the institution into a unique and innovative university within the national landscape, greatly contributing to its consolidation as an inclusive and plural higher educa- tion institution. Examples include the Autumn Festivals, Campus Jazz, FITUA, and the many concerts offered by the orchestras and other artistic groups of DECA.
The cultural and artistic dynamism at UA is mainly driven by initiatives promoted by the Rectorate, the organic units, and AAUAv and its artistic groups (music and theatre), as well as by the Filarmonia das Beiras orchestra, a partner of UA and co-founded by the institution. By making use of the various infrastructures across the campuses – including the new Nave Multiusos Caixa at the University of Aveiro – it is essential to provide a platform for the multiple artistic facets of the UA community, valuing internal talent and reinforcing the connection between the humanities, arts, and academia. It is important to promote, in a broader and more coordinated manner, cultural and artistic activities across the different campuses and the Cities of UA, enriching university life and strengthening connections with the surround- ing community, thus contributing to cultural creation and revitalization, and the sustainabili- ty of the facilities dedicated to the arts and humanities within UA.
The arts and humanities offer unique tools for exploring creativity, developing expressive skills, and understanding the social and historical context. Therefore, integrating an artistic and cultural component into teaching and research will contribute to a more comprehen- sive education that fosters the holistic development of students.
UA 2030 Commitments: Culture and Art at UA
UA’s strategic plan for the arts and culture
Develop a plan for the arts and culture at UA, aligned with the principles, objectives, and program of the National Arts Plan, as well as national and European cultural and heritage development policies. This strategy positions UA in a privileged role for dialogue with deci- sion-making centers (such as the Ministry of Culture, among others) and other entities and organizations managing the arts, culture, and heritage in the country.
Support and expansion of cultural and artistic initiatives
Enhance initiatives that position culture and heritage as fundamental pillars of UA’s identity, promoting and hosting events, exhibitions, and collaborations with partner entities in the arts and culture domain. Encourage the organization of festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural activities across campuses and in the Cities of UA, strengthening the bond between the University and the community, enriching academic life, and creating a dynamic and vibrant environment where culture, art, and science are integrated into university daily life.
Artistic and scientific residency programs
Encourage and support residency programs that integrate artists, scientists, and technolo- gists, promoting the creation of interdisciplinary projects that merge art, science, and tech- nology. These residencies will stimulate innovation and creativity, strengthening UA’s position as an excellence center in the convergence of these areas.
Preservation, research, and accessibility of heritage collections
Ensure and expand policies for the reception, preservation, and study of heritage collections, consolidating UA as a reference university in archival studies and studies of the intangible and tangible heritage. It is imperative to develop a digital platform that gathers and makes UA’s cultural and artistic heritage accessible, including art collections, historical archives, and academic productions. This platform will serve as a publicly accessible repository, facilitating access, research, education, and the appreciation of institutional heritage.