For my doctoral research, I intend to shift my conceptual focus from trauma theory to the exploration of transgression in bird mythology. Specifically, I am fascinated by the works of the Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch and his animated and storytelling qualities, fantasy elements, invented bird creatures, and dark humor. My aim is to study the mythology, spirituality, and symbolism of birds within the context of Bosch’s paintings. Through the lens of intermediality, I plan to analyze cinematic adaptations of Bosch’s works, which serve as a bridge to my own research.

Intermediality is a concept that addresses new ways of perceiving and problem-solving, emphasizing the crossing of boundaries between different media forms and the hybridization of artistic expression. It is an umbrella term encompassing various phenomena across disciplines such as literature, art history, music, theatre, film studies, and more. As I embark on my research, it is important to define my own understanding of intermediality and situate it within the broader spectrum of the field to establish a unique and clear perspective.

My intended PHD thesis combines both a practice-based visual art project and a theoretical component. The research is led by my artistic practice, which informs the thinking and writing within the study. The visual component of my research will generate new insights into the subject matter, including my own cinematic adaptations and those of other artists. My intended practice-led approach contributes to advancing knowledge within visual art practice, recognizing the practical component as a fundamental part of the theory.

Considering the scope of my research, I anticipate that it will take approximately four years to complete my thesis which I will hopefully submit in 2026.