Architecture of Culture: Design Labs II | Volume I

The Architecture of Culture project explores the preservation of craft in the UAE, looking at its role in local materials, architecture, and environments. It involves architects, designers, urbanists, curators, researchers, artists, geologists, biologists, chemists, and craft specialists from MENASEA. Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council operates in Sharjah, empowering women through craft. It curates an experimental research on the Architecture of Culture for its Design Labs II initiative, focusing on UAE's cultural heritage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 640 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2023
Publisher: Silvana

Architecture of Culture is a groundbreaking project that delves into the preservation of craftsmanship on a macro level, examining its relationship with local materials, architecture, and environments to understand its evolving role and impact on the sustainability of the Emirati community. This comprehensive initiative has brought together architects, designers, urbanists, curators, researchers, artists, geologists, biologists, chemists, and craft specialists from across the MENASEA region. Their contributions are featured in this publication, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate connections between culture and architecture.

At the heart of this project is the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, based in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Operating as a pioneering council, it spearheads a series of creative, cultural, and commercial initiatives aimed at empowering women through craft. With a regional presence spanning the Middle East, North Africa, South-East and Central Asia, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council's activities center on the preservation and promotion of indigenous craft heritage, the engagement of young generations, and the development of new international market opportunities.

Recognizing the cultural and sustainable significance of looking inward and returning to the vernacular, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council embarked on an experimental research project titled "Architecture of Culture." This initiative is part of their Design Labs II program, where the first year focused on a research fellowship with the American University of Sharjah's College of Architecture, Art, and Design. Through this collaboration, the council delved into the rich cultural heritage of the UAE, seeking insights that could inform their design practices and contribute to the revitalization of craftsmanship in the region.

The Architecture of Culture project aims to shed light on the diverse ways in which architecture shapes and reflects cultural identity. It explores the interplay between traditional and modern architectural styles, the use of local materials, and the preservation of cultural heritage sites. By examining these aspects, the project seeks to inspire architects, designers, and policymakers to create sustainable and culturally sensitive designs that contribute to the well-being of communities and the preservation of cultural heritage.

One of the key aspects of the Architecture of Culture project is its focus on empowering women through craft. Craftsmanship has long been a marginalized field, with women often excluded from opportunities for economic empowerment and artistic recognition. By promoting women's participation in the craft industry, the project aims to break down barriers and promote gender equality. Through workshops, training programs, and exhibitions, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council provides women with the skills and resources they need to thrive in the craft sector, enabling them to become independent entrepreneurs and contribute to the economic development of their communities.

In addition to its work on empowering women, the Architecture of Culture project also seeks to engage young generations in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. By incorporating contemporary design practices into traditional craft techniques, the project aims to create a bridge between generations and promote a sense of cultural pride and identity. Through educational programs, workshops, and exhibitions, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council encourages young people to explore the rich heritage of their culture and to recognize the value of craftsmanship in shaping their future.

Furthermore, the Architecture of Culture project aims to develop new international market opportunities for craftsmen and women. By showcasing their skills and products on a global stage, the project seeks to increase the visibility and recognition of indigenous craft heritage and to promote sustainable economic growth. Through partnerships with international organizations, museums, and galleries, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council aims to create platforms for artisans to sell their products and to collaborate with designers and manufacturers to create innovative and sustainable products that reflect the cultural heritage of the region.

In conclusion, the Architecture of Culture project is a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to explore the preservation of craftsmanship on a macro level, examining its relationship with local materials, architecture, and environments to understand its evolving role and impact on the sustainability of the Emirati community. Through the contributions of architects, designers, urbanists, curators, researchers, artists, geologists, biologists, chemists, and craft specialists, the project aims to inspire architects, designers, and policymakers to create sustainable and culturally sensitive designs that contribute to the well-being of communities and the preservation of cultural heritage. By empowering women through craft and engaging young generations in the preservation of cultural heritage, the project seeks to create a brighter future for the Emirati community and for the world at large.

Weight: 1481g
Dimension: 220 x 165 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788836655144