About
Max Liljefors is a Professor and Manager of Research and Research Education at the Division of Art History and Visual Studies within the Department of Arts and Cultural Sciences at Lund University's Faculty of Humanities and Theology. His work bridges art history, philosophy, medicine, and neuroscience to explore the transformative potential of art.
His research interests focus on the healing potential of art and aesthetics, existential resilience, and the intersection of visual culture with healthcare. He combines traditional art historical methods with insights from neuroscience and medical humanities to develop innovative approaches to understanding art's impact on human wellbeing.
Liljefors' recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on embodied aesthetics, hospital art environments, and the philosophical dimensions of visual experience. His work spans artistic practice, theoretical inquiry, and practical applications in healthcare settings, reflecting his transdisciplinary approach to art research.
Scientific Recognition:
- Member of the Swedish Royal Academy of Science
Liljefors leads significant research initiatives including the Swedish Research Council-funded project Art Worlds Apart (2022-2025) and coordinates the Existential Resilience initiative (ERiCi, 2023-2025) with approximately twenty researchers and external partners. He has developed commissioned educational programs for healthcare professionals and conducted research for public healthcare agencies in Stockholm and Scania.
His academic activities include teaching courses on Western art history, arts and health, existential resilience, and visual culture methodology, demonstrating his commitment to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications in healthcare contexts.
