The Interplay of Cultures Studio, focuses on the thematic area of Global Sustainability and Cultural Locality, encompassing all scales of architectural design. This year we sought understanding on Sámi cultures and their way of building. Questioning, what we could learn from it in relation to our current Western ways of building. The focus of the course was on knowledge building on sustainable design solutions and culturally sensitive architecture.
During the studio we investigated Northern indigenous cultures to learn how they have lived in relation to the natural environment, how they have found shelter and livelihood in the harsh climate while leaving little physical traces of their presence. We inquire into the tradition and contemporary culture of the Sámi people.
The students explored what Sámi architecture is and what kind of cultural features are reflected in it. Then we set our eyes on our own Western culture. What cultural features are reflected in the way we build? What needs to change for us to achieve a more balanced relationship with the more than human world?
Interplay of Cultures Studio organized workshop and conversation with Joar Nango, a Sámi artist and architect featured in the ARS 22 exhibition by the Finnish National Gallery KIASMA.
The year 2021 Interplay of Culture Studio shares a set of works from a collaboration with the Siida museum and representatives of the Sámi communities in Finnish Lapland / Sápmi. Along with a great appreciation of the rich Sámi culture, the exhibition also gives insight into the complex political and future challenges of the Arctic landscape.
A selection of student projects celebrate the 25th anniversary of education in global sustainability and humanitarian development at Aalto.
Designs for a Cooler Planet is a five-week-long festival celebrating experiments in planet-friendly materials, fashion, and food.
Planet-friendly alternatives for materials, mindsets and architecture.