Art as a way to re-explore the world

Madeleine Kate McGowan, an Irish-Danish artist, has a unique upbringing that has deeply influenced her art. Growing up in Benin, Denmark, and Italy, she considers herself part of a geo-social elite, privileged with the opportunity to move across borders. This diverse cultural exposure has shaped her into a visionary artist deeply immersed in the multifaceted exploration of art, ecology, and societal transformation. With a background in arts, speculative design, and ecology, Madeleine’s work is a compelling narrative of creative endeavour and philosophical inquiry.

Currently, Madeleine is the artistic leader at NXT, where she created The Garden Caretaker project as an official Lighthouse Demonstrator, part of the New European Bauhaus. The Garden Caretaker project, a transformative initiative led by Madeleine in Herlev, Denmark, is turning a former asphalt factory site into a residential area.

This project, unlike traditional caretaking roles, combines practical building maintenance with artistic and sensory practices. According to Madeleine’s concept, garden caretakers are knowledgeable about aesthetics, emotions, stories, and biology, facilitating connections between residents, the landscape, and other species. By embodying the role of garden caretaker and engaging with local communities, Madeleine seeks to inspire meaningful dialogue and action around sustainability and community well-being.

Central to Madeleine’s artistic practice is the concept of habitability, an alternative to growth-centric ideologies that emphasise the interconnectedness of human and non-human life forms. Through the lens of habitability, Madeleine explores the notion of belonging and the importance of understanding and valuing local ecosystems and communities. This philosophical underpinning informs Madeleine’s approach to community engagement and ecological stewardship, driving her work within the Garden Caretaker project.

This project demonstrates that Madeleine’s artistic work is characterised by a deep sense of connection to place and community. Working within the landscape of an old asphalt factory, she embraces the concept of “being of place”, a process that involves deep engagement with the unique characteristics and histories of a given location. Through this process, Madeleine uncovers hidden ecologies and fosters a sense of belonging among residents, challenging perceptions of so-called “unattractive” or “boring” spaces.

In addition to the Garden Caretaker project, Madeleine’s artistic practice extends to community engagement and education. Through collaborations with schools and healthcare institutions, she facilitates immersive experiences that encourage participants to reconnect with their surroundings and explore the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

Through activities like landscape walks and listening sessions, Madeleine fosters a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings and encourages a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the environment.

In conclusion, Madeleine’s story exemplifies artistic innovation, ecological stewardship, and community engagement. Through her work with the Garden Caretaker project, she challenges conventional paradigms and advocates for a more holistic and sustainable approach to urban development.

Madeleine’s project aligns with the principles of the New European Bauhaus, and by integrating these values into her work, she sets a powerful example of how to address environmental and societal challenges meaningfully.

Written by Jose Rodriguez
Photos by Dagmar Knerova, Prague House