"Creative Thinking" – theoretical research alongside creation, is a study program led by Dr. Idith Suslik. "Creative Thinking" has been operating at Kelim since 2023 as a learning group for experienced choreographers seeking to conduct theoretical research in dialogue with their current creative process, and/or theoretical research that provides an academic framework and context for their overall body of work. The group serves as a space for peer learning, a circle for supporting thought, formulation, learning, and enrichment of each choreographer’s individual creative processes.

 

It is composed of colleagues who are established artists wishing to deepen their theoretical knowledge in a focused and specific way around the themes they explore in their works, as well as to be part of a collective process of exchanging and sharing knowledge and practices from diverse dance styles and different choreographic approaches. Throughout the program, group processes of peer learning occur alongside individual processes. Group learning meetings are held in a reading group that convenes every two weeks, where artistic and theoretical questions are discussed among peers, with joint reading of texts, in-depth discussions, and mutual inspiration.

 

Simultaneously, personal academic guidance is provided by Dr. Idith Suslik to each creator according to the needs arising from their artistic research. This involves a direct dialogue including references from dance studies, performance, and live shows, as well as from related disciplines (such as social and cultural studies, gender, and arts), guidance in writing and formulation, feedback, and theoretical direction. Additionally, throughout the studies, presentations are held in which creators present their individual artistic research to the group, including their personal theoretical questions and inquiries regarding their work/body of work, receiving feedback from the peer group under the guidance of Dr. Idith Suslik.

 

In this way, an artistic-theoretical guidance of creative processes is created, with a flow between the theoretical and artistic and mutual fertilization between them. The learning process in the program is accompanied by writing exercises intended to articulate the principles and qualities of the dance/performance language and the choreographic practices of each creator. Short texts produced as part of the learning process receive feedback from Dr. Idith Suslik so that they can serve the participants’ ongoing needs (submissions, programs, websites, etc.).