POWER

The idea of choosing POWER as the focus of the third PEA—Pedagogy, Ecology and the Arts conference in Merano (Italy) stems from an interest in exploring power as a relational, educational, ecological, and creative force. Rather than understanding power solely as domination, authority, or control, the conference invited contributors to investigate how power can be exercised responsibly, shared collectively, and transformed through pedagogical, ecological, and artistic practices.
Educational processes—both formal and informal—play a fundamental role in cultivating critical awareness and enabling more participatory, ethical, and sustainable ways of exercising power. Across educational, artistic, and community contexts, there is a growing need to rethink power as a shared and transformative practice that supports coexistence among humans and the more-than-human world.
At PEA 2025, we explored the many dimensions of power through the lenses of pedagogy, ecology, and the arts. The chapter authors are researchers and practitioners from across Europe and beyond, each engaging with two or all three PEA pillars. The book is structured around these themes, highlighting the focus of each chapter. The conference contributions—keynotes, oral presentations, and workshops—have been reworked for this volume and enriched through the dialogue and exchange that took place during the conference. We hope readers will sense the convivial and interactive spirit that continues to shape the PEA community.