S+T+ARTS Buen-TEK explores how indigenous knowledge and advanced technologies can jointly tackle socio-environmental challenges and inspire resilient ways of living.
Over 18 months, artists will collaborate with researchers, local communities, and cultural institutions in South America and Europe to develop creative responses rooted in the principles of Buen Vivir and Lo-TEK.

Buen Vivir is an indigenous philosophy emphasizing collective well-being, reciprocity and interconnectedness between humans and nature.
Lo-TEK (Local Traditional Ecological Knowledge, by author Julia Watson) highlights adaptive, place-based technologies and vernacular innovations that have allowed communities to live sustainably for generations.

,S+T+ARTS Buen-TEK seeks to reimagine how we approach ecological sustainability, culture, and innovation by bridging these worldviews with contemporary science and technology.

At the heart of the project:
🔹 S+T+ARTS Residencies: 10 artists will develop site-specific projects in collaboration with stakeholders across six South American countries,
🔹 S+T+ARTS Prizes: several Prizes will award South American artists whose practice embodies the principles of Buen Vivir and Lo-TEK,
🔹 Exhibitions & Showcases: +15 public events in South America and Europe to showcase artworks, inspire dialogue and cross-cultural learning.
🔹 Network & Storytelling: A network across two continents to amplify indigenous narratives and ecological solutions.