Sonja Kretz

Sonja Kretz serves as an Associate Lecturer at the Institute of Interior Architecture within the Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts. She is simultaneously an active visual artist and color designer based in Schönenwerd, Switzerland, specializing in site-specific installations and architectural color concepts.

Education:

• Master of Contemporary Arts Practice, Fine Arts, Bern (2010-2011)
• Höhere Fachschule für Farbgestaltung, Haus der Farbe, Zürich (2002-2005)
• Dekorateurin, dekom GmbH, Spreitenbach (2000-2003)
• Gestalterische Berufsmaturität, Lenzburg (1996-1999)
• Ausbildung zur Damenschneiderin, Mode Elle, Niederlenz (1996-1999)

Research Focus: Kretz investigates the reciprocal relationships between people and space through the lens of natural-artificial interfaces. Her practice integrates color theory, material experimentation, and spatial perception to transform environments. She examines how built spaces influence human experience while challenging conventional boundaries between interior/exterior and organic/synthetic realms through installations that provoke spatial disorientation and memory recall.

Artistic Evolution: Her recent works (2015-2024) increasingly address climate urgency through metaphorical landscapes (icebergs, wilderness) while maintaining architectural precision. Projects demonstrate progression from discrete color interventions toward immersive mixed-media ecosystems that merge concrete structures with organic symbolism, particularly evident in her 2024 Concrete Nature II installation at Lucerne Art Museum.

Awards:

• 1st Prize: Art and Construction for Zurich Veterinary Hospital Horse Clinic
• 1st Prize: Art and Architecture for New Nursing Home Herosé, Aarau

Professional Collaborations: Kretz maintains active partnerships with architectural firms including Meier Leder Architects (Baden) and Blättler Dafflon Architects (Zurich), alongside conceptual collaborations with author Severin Perrig. Her upcoming projects include the Kanti Zurich North competition entry and color concepts for House Basel (2025).