Esotericism, Creativity, and Artistic Practice

The academic study of esotericism is undergoing a phase of expansion and diversification, and its intersections with art are awakening wider interest. However, many efforts remain superficial, such as attempts to incorporate Hilma af Klint into the canon of abstract art as a ‘pioneer’ or the inclusion of women surrealists like Leonora Carrington and Ithell Colquhoun into the master narrative of surrealism. These approaches often fail to critically reassess deeper frameworks and risk reinforcing established hierarchies.

By shifting the focus from finalized object to artistic practice and the creative process, this session advocates for a more nuanced engagement with the esoteric dimensions of art. It seeks so challenge teleological and object-based biases, reframing artistic practice as a form of knowledge production where the boundaries between artist, medium, and external forces become blurred.

Participants are encouraged to propose new perspectives on artistic practice and creativity, investigating how the intersections of art and esotericism question traditional notions of authorship, genius, and progress. The session also seeks to address the gendered frameworks of art history that have marginalized the practices of women artists and other underrepresented voices, particularly in relation to esotericism. Submissions may include both historical analyses and studies that engage with contemporary artistic practices.

Submit your Paper via this form. Please download, complete and send it directly to the Session Convenor(s) below by Sunday 2 November 2025:

Marja Lahelma, Ateneum Art Museum / Finnish National Gallery marja.lahelma@ateneum.fi