Meaning in the Sensual: On the Creative Power of Contemplation

Encountering art opens up a special realm of experience. A realm in which meaning can reveal itself and be uncovered in a way all of its own. For the meaning of a work of art does not simply lie ready before us. It only emerges and unfolds through the encounter, through individual and ever-renewed acts of contemplation. In this sense, perception is an active, creative process in which sensory experience and thought come together.
 

We would like to cordially invite you to join us in a conversation about this creative power of conscious perception: What does it mean to truly see? What happens when the world feels itself to be seen by us? And can such a way of perceiving contribute anything to the challenges of our time?

For us, this day is also a special occasion for joy and gratitude. With the completion of the publication of Michael Bockemühl’s lecture series *KUNST SEHEN*, a journey that has accompanied us for many years, moved us and repeatedly inspired us to see anew, has reached its provisional conclusion. We would like to celebrate this conclusion together with you.

Anyone interested in preparing for our afternoon together in advance can find out more from the WDR’s ‘KUNST SEHEN’ series or listen to the episode of Jürgen Wiebicke’s ‘Philosophisches Radio’ featuring the UW/H. 

To register, please send an email by 15 October 2026 to: david.hornemannvonlaer@uni-wh.de, stating your name and the number of people who will be attending. 

The event is free of charge.