Research in art and design

Design can shift culture, challenge systems and spark change. At AUT, art and design research is driven by social impact and shaped through experimentation, technology and collaboration. Our researchers work across disciplines and perspectives, with plenty of opportunities to engage meaningfully with Māori and Pacific worldviews. This is creative research with purpose, built to make a difference.

Our recent projects

GHD work books

Are you making a meal out of research?

That’s the question a new workbook created by the Good Health Design team at AUT hopes to help answer to support those new to research.
Audiovisual Artwork, Ngā Raraunga o te Mākū: the data of moisture

Climate crisis artwork on show in India

The artwork ‘Ngā Raraunga o te Mākū: the data of moisture’ incorporates livestreamed climate change data.
Va-Moana Artwork

Vā Moana: space and relationality in Pacific thought and identity

Hosted by AUT, the conference explored Pacific vā, identity and Moana Futures.
News
Rangitoto Island forms a backdrop to the wave-cut platform off Achilles Point, Auckland.
Audiovisual Artwork, Ngā Raraunga o te Mākū: the data of moisture
GHD work books
Assoc Prof Rod Thomas
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Rangitoto Island forms a backdrop to the wave-cut platform off Achilles Point, Auckland.
Panel discussion: Auckland’s volcanoes 
23 May, 2025
A panel discussion on 29 May at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) will explore the volcanoes and lava caves of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Audiovisual Artwork, Ngā Raraunga o te Mākū: the data of moisture
Climate crisis artwork on show in India
26 Jan, 2024
AUT’s Janine Randerson, Rachel Shearer and Stefan Marks head to India to present the audiovisual artwork Ngā Raraunga o te Mākū: the data of moisture.
GHD work books
Are you making a meal out of research?
28 Aug, 2023
That’s the question a new workbook created by the Good Health Design team at AUT hopes to help answer.
Assoc Prof Rod Thomas
What makes a treasure, a treasure?
29 Nov, 2022
Art and law expert Rod Thomas tells The Detail why New Zealand should keep a list of protected artworks to strengthen the country's cultural heritage.
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New professors and associate professors
17 Nov, 2022
AUT is delighted to announce the promotion of 15 of its academics to the position of Professor and 30 to Associate Professor.
Events
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Grad Fest 2025
Tuesday 16 Dec, 10:30am - Wednesday 17 Dec, 5pm
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AUT LIVE – Our university open day!
Saturday 29 Aug, 9am - 3pm

Study a PhD in art and design

Make a significant original contribution to knowledge in the art and design field with a PhD. Check the brochure for details around scholarships, postgrad facilities and entry requirements.

Download PhD brochure