University of Coimbra to host 3rd edition of ESFERA(S) Forum in October
Registrations are now open for the event, to be held on 10 and 11 October at Convento São Francisco.
The University of Coimbra (UC), in partnership with Coimbra City Council, the Municipality of Santos, the University of Santa Cecília, the National Arts Plan, and the Arte no Dique Institute, will hold the 3rd edition of the ESFERA(S) Forum on 10 and 11 October. This international event, dedicated to the arts, sustainability, and social responsibility, brings together students, lecturers, artists, and representatives of various institutions from Portugal and Brazil. The event will take place at Convento São Francisco in Coimbra, with registrations now open.
Focused on eco-acting, sustainability, training, experimentation, social responsibility and the arts — which form the acronym ESFERA(S) — this annual forum alternates between Coimbra and Santos (Brazil). It provides a space for creation, experimentation, and dialogue, aiming to strengthen cultural, academic, and scientific ties between Portugal and Brazil, and raise awareness of the role of the arts in developing new skills and sustainable art practices.
The 2025 edition has a programme combining arts, science, and innovation, featuring leading figures in different artistic fields and projects, including Cristiane Torloni, António Ferreira, Paulo Pires do Vale, and Jorge Brito.
ESFERA(S) will hold sessions and thematic panels addressing current issues in the fields of art, education, and social responsibility, with a strong emphasis on training, with hands-on workshops led by artists and educators such as Ana Rita Arruda, Joana Pupo, André Fausto, Ana do Canto, and Sara Velasco (each limited to 40 participants).
The programme also includes a Show and Tell session, showcasing innovative projects from UC partners. The ESFERA(S) Forum will host music and dance performances and shows over two days, including 5º Punkada, Coral Cénico Céu da Boca, Interdito and Há Baixa.
“Now in its third edition, the ESFERA(S) Forum is firmly establishing itself as a key strategic initiative for the University of Coimbra, fostering closer ties between culture and sustainability. By bringing together experts, artists and institutions, the event highlights the importance of promoting sustainable, innovative and inclusive artistic practices that address major global challenges,” said Delfim Leão, UC Vice-Rector for Culture, Communication and Open Science.
Please note that entry to the ESFERA(S) Forum is free, but prior registration is required for some activities due to limited capacity. Registration is open from 9 September to 5 October and can be completed via the following links: Students under 23 years of age and the General public, including students over 23.
Further information and the full programme are available here.