Ásthildur Jónsdóttir, Iceland (b. 1970) has PhD from University of Iceland and Doctor of Arts from University of Lapland. MA from NYU and Med from University of Iceland. She is an artist, researcher, curator and teacher educator at University of Iceland. She has studied artistic actions for sustainability, community-based art and participatory art practices when finding a balance between well-being and the integrity of nature. Concepts from critical, place-based education for sustainability, participatory pedagogy, collective efficacy and places /spaces are fundamental to her research interests.
For a number of years, Ásthildur has been involved with issues concerning the ecology of the planet. In her work she is concerned about places/ environment, memories, recollection and identity through authorship and collaboration, questioning individuality, exploring what is unique and what is common. Her work practice often includes arts and cultural movements that support sustainability at all levels. With her works, she wants to bring attention to how human interaction can further both the understanding and practice of wellbeing with respect to the integrity of nature. In later years, participation has played an essential role in her works. With participation, she creates settings for people to experience significance through actions performed in close connection with the spirits of nature. She often works with installations in contemporary context and with voices of participants from a selected place.
