Field Notes on Scarcity: The 2023 Sharjah Architecture Triennial

Scarcity of resources in many extreme climate conditions across the global south and globally often stimulates innovation, inspiration, and ingenuity. Permanence has created a climate crisis with spaces constructed with non-degradable materials, resource extraction without replenishment, and buildings designed for single-eternal use. Field Notes on Scarcity, published in conjunction with the 2023 Sharjah Architecture Triennial, examines what scarcity looks like on the ground and the challenges and opportunities it presents across architecture and design. 60 scholars and practitioners from across the Global South contribute reflections, poems, visual essays, and dialogues exploring what scarcity represents, what it inspires, and what it reveals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2023
Publisher: Park Books

Scarcity of resources in all forms is often portrayed negatively, yet these conditions, which have long been a reality in many extreme climate conditions across the global south and are increasingly becoming a global reality, often stimulate an abundance of innovation, inspiration, and ingenuity. Permanence has created a climate crisis, with spaces constructed with non-degradable materials, resource extraction without active replenishment, and buildings designed for a single-eternal use. Our present reality is marked by a global pandemic, violent conflicts, and the looming threat of climate change-induced environmental disasters. This fragile situation is particularly evident in the Global South, where systems, innovations, and structures shaped by imperial and industrial powers through exploitation and extraction of natural resources lack a long-term, sustainable vision. Yet there remains an optimism about the creative possibilities that arise within these constraints.

Field Notes on Scarcity, published in conjunction with the 2023 Sharjah Architecture Triennial, examines what scarcity truly looks like on the ground and the challenges and opportunities it presents across architecture and design. 60 scholars and practitioners from across the Global South, including Lesley Lokko, Yinka Shonibare, Formafantasma, Rahul Mehrotra, Olalekan Jeyifous, Abeer Seikaly, Ilze and Heinrich Wolff, Chitra Vishwanath, Deema Assaf, and many others, contribute reflections, poems, visual essays, and dialogues exploring what scarcity represents, what it inspires, and what it reveals.

The book explores the ways in which scarcity shapes the built environment, from the design of buildings and cities to the use of materials and resources. It also examines the ways in which scarcity can inspire creativity and innovation, as designers and architects find new ways to use limited resources to create sustainable and resilient systems.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of community and collaboration in addressing scarcity. The authors argue that scarcity can create a sense of shared responsibility and urgency, which can lead to innovative solutions that benefit everyone. They also highlight the importance of cultural and social diversity in responding to scarcity, as different communities have different experiences and perspectives on the issue.

Another theme of the book is the role of technology in addressing scarcity. The authors argue that technology can be used to improve resource efficiency, reduce waste, and create new sources of energy and materials. They also discuss the ethical implications of using technology in addressing scarcity, such as the potential for unintended consequences and the need for responsible and sustainable development.

The book also includes a series of case studies that illustrate the ways in which scarcity is being addressed in different parts of the world. These case studies include projects in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, which demonstrate the diversity of approaches and solutions being used to address scarcity.

Overall, Field Notes on Scarcity is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that provides a new perspective on scarcity and its impact on architecture and design. It offers a roadmap for creating a more sustainable and resilient future, and highlights the importance of collaboration, creativity, and innovation in addressing the challenges of our time.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 172 x 242 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783038603573