Irfan Brkovic

Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts master's student in the Faculty of Communication, Art and Technology

Irfan Brković is an interdisciplinary artist and educator from Bosnia and Herzegovina. With a passion for exploring the intersection of technology and performance, his work often centers around electronic instruments, feedback systems, and controlled randomness. He currently serves as a member and video artist at The Wooster Group in New York, designing interactive video systems for live performances. Additionally, he is a founding member of Phase Space NYC, an organization dedicated to the exploration of media, performance, creative coding, and interdisciplinary art practices. Irfan is currently pursuing his Master of Fine Arts degree at the SFU School of Contemporary Arts in Vancouver, Canada, where he continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression through his research and practice.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I moved to Vancouver from New York to pursue my master's studies and research at SFU's School for the Contemporary Arts. I was drawn to the interdisciplinary arts program and the opportunities it provides for exploring new forms of storytelling and expression. Vancouver's vibrant arts scene and proximity to natural landscapes also played a role in my decision to move here. I am excited to continue developing my skills and contributing to the arts community in this beautiful city.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

My research and program focus on exploring different forms of art, including painting, and combining them with technology to create engaging work. I am studying at a university in Canada called SFU's School for the Contemporary Arts, where I am learning from experienced teachers and collaborate with talented students to develop skills and exciting work.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I am grateful for the support and resources that SFU's School for the Contemporary Arts has provided me with, including access to facilities, equipment, and knowledgeable faculty. Additionally, being surrounded by the natural beauty of British Columbia has been an inspiring and grounding experience that has influenced my work in unexpected ways.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I am thrilled to have been awarded both the Colin McPhee Graduate Scholarship Award in Fine Arts and the Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship Award at SFU SCA for 2022. The Colin McPhee Graduate Scholarship Award in Fine Arts is a highly competitive and prestigious scholarship awarded to exceptional graduate students at SFU SCA. It recognizes my achievements and potential in the field of Fine Arts and provides me with financial support to pursue my research and studies. The Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship Award, on the other hand, has given me the opportunity to further my studies at SFU SCA by easing my financial burden. These awards have significantly impacted my studies and research by allowing me to focus on my work and push the boundaries of interdisciplinary art practices. I am grateful for the recognition and support, and I am excited to continue my journey as an artist and researcher at SFU SCA.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?

My program/research is as a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment that encourages exploration, innovation, and collaboration. As a researcher, I have access to cutting-edge resources and technologies, as well as the opportunity to work with talented colleagues and mentors. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, where you will have the chance to develop your skills through practical applications, projects, and collaborations with industry partners.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

As a researcher at Precursor Lab within the Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, I collaborate with a team of artists and researchers to explore new and interdisciplinary methods for performance. Our goal is to push the boundaries of traditional theatre and explore new forms of storytelling that transform the way audiences engage with live events.

Contact Irfan: irfan_brkovic@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• My Personal Website
• Instagram