Where Art, Policy, and Innovation Meet the Ocean
On June 10th, as part of the 2025 European Maritime Day Geneva and in parallel with UN Ocean Conference in Nice, Syntezia hosts Syntezia Open, in Geneva/ Switzerland: a unique event where artists, futurists, and policy-makers come together to explore how creative and interdisciplinary approaches can drive systemic change and contribute meaningfully to the goals of the UN Ocean Decade.
At this year’s European Maritime Day, we are proud to feature a special collaboration between Syntezia Open and the Institute for Art and Innovation (IFAI). Through the lens of socially engaged art, we spotlight artistic responses to ocean-related challenges and present powerful works from the Social Art Award 2025 under the theme “Planetary Healing – Blue Tribes for Ocean Health.” In the virtual exhibition “Art for Systemic Change – Oceans in Sight”selected works reflecting the urgency and beauty of our oceans, will spark public imagination and civic engagement across Europe and beyond.
Syntezia Open is an annual event organized by Yves Zieba, founder of Syntezia Sàrl, dedicated to fostering dialogue and action on critical environmental issues. This year’s focus emphasizes a strong commitment to water and ocean protection, advocating for sustainable practices that preserve our vital waterways and marine ecosystems.
Participants can engage in discussions aimed at enhancing coastal protection, promoting marine biodiversity, and exploring innovative solutions for blue job creation. By bringing together artists, futurists, scientists, inventors, experts, policymakers, and community leaders, Syntezia Open seeks to inspire collaborative efforts that contribute to a healthier ocean and resilient coastal communities, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
In addition, Nicole Loeser, director of IFAI Berlin and initiator of their impactful transdisciplinary initiatives, will present highlights from several pioneering initiatives focused on ocean protection and regenerative futures, showcasing how art can act as both a mirror and a catalyst for transformative action.
– Ocean Future Lab / Ocean Future School Lab – co-creating future scenarios for sustainable ocean use with citizens and experts
– Art for Futures Lab – merging foresight and creativity to shape regenerative imaginaries
– Sustainable Coastal Futures – linking green energy with local voices for participatory transformation
– The Universal Sea – a European impactful cultural movements against marine pollution
These projects bridge art, science, policy, and activism—demonstrating how creative approaches can drive systemic change and contribute to the goals of the UN Ocean Decade as e.g. Ocean Future School Lab and Social Art Award are part of the UN Ocean Decade activities.
Save the Date !
🗓️ June 10, 2025
📍 Genève, Switzerland – Syntezia Open
We look forward to welcoming you !