Linda O'Keeffe

Linda O'Keeffe is a Professor and Head of the School of Art at the University of Edinburgh's Edinburgh College of Art. Her work bridges sound art, science, and community engagement, focusing on acoustic ecology, gender inclusion, and climate change. She founded Women in Sound Women on Sound (WISWOS) to advocate for women in sonic arts and served as Editor-in-Chief of Interference Journal. O'Keeffe holds a PhD in Sociology & Media from NUI Maynooth and has taught at institutions including Lancaster University and National University of Ireland. Her research explores soundscapes' social and environmental impacts, with notable projects like Hybrid Soundscapes and collaborations with Non Random on bioethical art. She has received multiple awards, including the Arts Council of England Travel Award (2018), and her work spans installations, performances, and soundwalks.

• Education: PhD in Sociology & Media (NUI Maynooth), MA in Virtual Realities (NCAD), BFA in Art & Design (IADT)
• Key Roles: Founder of WISWOS, ISSTA President (2015-2017), Curator of Sounds Like Her exhibition
• Recent Projects: Continents Drifting (2023), Encountering Survival (2022), Evolving Ourselves (2022)

Her research interests emphasize interdisciplinary methodologies, such as soundwalks and participatory practices, to address ecological and social issues. O'Keeffe’s art explores the interplay between technology, gender, and environmental justice, often collaborating with scientists and communities globally.

Awards: Arts Council International Travel Award, New Foundations Award, and numerous residencies including Ceramic House (2022) and Huddersfield Holocaust Center commissions.

Advising & Grants: Supervises graduate students in sound art, gender studies, and interdisciplinary practice. Secured funding through ISSTC conferences and Creative Scotland.

Labs/Teams: Leads Non Random collective (art-science collaborations) and directs WISWOS, fostering international networks for women in sound.