Wunya, Kia ora, God dag and G’day 🙂
I’m a transdisciplinary artist, activist, scholar and founder of Treecreate
For over 30 years, I have explored the complex relationships of places, people and identity through multiple lenses – as an artist, scientist and technologist. I recently graduated research Masters of Applied Science at the University of Canberra where my thesis examined energy vulnerability, barriers to energy efficiency and behaviour change. My PhD from the Australian National University explored social activism and the relationships between online and offline communities.
As an academic, I have lectured at universities in Australia, New Zealand and Norway and have held adjunct postdoc research positions at the:
- School of Music, Australian National University
- eXtended Reality Lab, Charles Sturt University
- TransArts Institute for Creative Research
- Institute of Applied Ecology | Centre for Creative and Cultural Research at University of Canberra
- More than Human Lab at Victoria University, Wellington, NZ.
As a policy and program leader I have over 20 years experience with government and community based environmental programs aimed at digital transformation, environmental research, citizen engagement and behaviour change. Many of these roles have had a significant focus on online engagement. Some channels include:
- Screensound.gov.au (web manager)
- Environment.gov.au (web manager)
- LivingGreener.gov.au (strategy and insights)
- YourEnergySavings.gov.au (project rebranding lead)
- Energy.gov.au (project management lead on consolidation)
- ACT Education – behavioural insights advisor, digital transformation
- ServicesAustralia.gov.au (user researcher)
I am passionate about joined up thinking through connecting art, science and culture to empower people to value and protect the environment through creativity and practical action. Collaboration is central to my practice and I work across a broad range of networks, including:
- PhD Advisor at Trans Arts Institute / Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)
- Trustee at Intercreate
- Founder at Treecreate and TransArts Alliance
- Director, Ethos Global Foundation
- Strategic Member, Group of Energy Efficiency Researchers (GEER)
- Expert at Australian Academy of Science (citizen engagement and behaviour change).
I also am a member of a number of arts and science organisations:
- Member, National Association of Visual Arts
- Member, International Association of Arts Critics
- Member, Immersive Learning Research Network
- Member, Women Eco Arts Dialog
Keep up to date News and Events
In conversation at Groundworks
Recent chapter on Indigenous Art, Resilience and Climate Change: Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and Samoa (Routledge)
For a longer biography with links to my resume, check out my About page
Tracey M Benson || Bytetime 