Architectures of Embodiment - Disclosing New Intelligibilities

The book explores architecture from an enactivist perspective and through aesthetic practices, aiming to destabilize its objects of research to disclose new intelligibilities. It is a dialogical research dispositive, inviting participation in an open-ended process of research within a growing ecology of research practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2020
Publisher: Diaphanes AG

This book emerged from the rich research environment known as Architecture of Embodiment, which delves into architecture from an enactivist perspective and through aesthetic practices. While the primary objective of this research environment is not to provide definitive answers to the central question of how architecture shapes the emergence of sense, it seeks to establish the necessary conceptual, methodological, and communicative foundations to address this profound inquiry. Ultimately, its goal is to destabilize the objects of research in order to unveil new understandings of the issues at hand. In this sense, Architecture of Embodiment functions as an environment that aims to fulfill a fundamental cognitive function of research through aesthetic practices.

Architectures of Embodiment is a multifaceted and interconnected collection of autonomous artifacts, comprising a series of texts authored by Alex Arteaga, Mika Elo, Ana García Varas, Lidia Gasperoni, Jonathan Hale, Susanne Hauser, Dieter Mersch, and Gerard Vilar. These texts engage in a dynamic dialogue with one another through a series of comments and responses to each other's comments. Conceived as a dialogical research dispositive, this book serves as an invitation to participate in an ongoing, open-ended research process within a rapidly evolving ecosystem of research practices.

Within the framework of Architecture of Embodiment, architecture is approached as an active agent that shapes and influences the emergence of sense. The researchers explore the interplay between architectural design, sensory experiences, and the cognitive processes of individuals and communities. They investigate how architectural spaces, structures, and materials can evoke specific emotions, sensations, and cognitive states, and how these interactions shape the way we perceive and interpret the world around us.

One of the key themes explored in Architectures of Embodiment is the relationship between architecture and embodiment. The researchers argue that architecture is not merely a physical construct but a dynamic and relational system that interacts with the body, mind, and environment. They explore how architectural spaces can enhance or restrict bodily movements, influence perception, and create a sense of belonging and identity. By examining the embodied experiences of individuals within architectural spaces, the researchers aim to understand how architecture can shape our sense of self and our relationship with the world.

Another important aspect of Architectures of Embodiment is the role of aesthetics in shaping architectural experiences. The researchers argue that aesthetics is not merely a decorative or ornamental element but a fundamental component of architectural design. They explore how aesthetics can evoke emotions, create moods, and shape our perception of space and time. Through the analysis of architectural aesthetics, the researchers aim to understand how aesthetics can contribute to the creation of meaningful and memorable architectural spaces.

Architectures of Embodiment also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in research. The researchers draw on insights from various fields, including architecture, psychology, neuroscience, and cultural studies, to develop a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between architecture and sense. By integrating multiple perspectives and methodologies, the researchers aim to create a richer and more nuanced understanding of the issues at hand.

In conclusion, Architectures of Embodiment is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on architecture and its role in shaping the emergence of sense. Through its interdisciplinary approach, collaborative spirit, and emphasis on aesthetics, this book provides the necessary conceptual, methodological, and communicative conditions to address the central question of how architecture conditions the emergence of sense. By destabilizing the objects of research and unveiling new intelligibilities, Architectures of Embodiment contributes to the ongoing dialogue between architecture, the body, and the environment, and opens up new avenues for research and design in the field.

Weight: 678g
Dimension: 230 x 161 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783035801996