{"product_id":"momentum-of-light-9783037786864","title":"Momentum of Light","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003eIn Burkina Faso, photographer Iwan Baan and architect Francis Kéré documented how the sun's natural light cycle shapes vernacular architecture with little to no artificial light sources. They traveled to three exemplary locations and used a special technique to print the photographs to give a sense of immersion in the light conditions. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Paperback \/ softback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 180 pages\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 04 November 2021\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: Lars Muller Publishers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAcross the African continent, particularly in the sub-Saharan regions, the light provided by the sun has a distinctively stark quality, which becomes most apparent in relation to age-old buildings and in the way it shapes daily routines. Without relying on artificial light, architecture had to both make use of the sun's light to create a light source within a building and also protect those living in the houses from the intensity of it. This has resulted in vernacular architecture that works with very few or small openings that render the inside of a building near pitch black while the outside is illuminated by direct sunshine that bears down mercilessly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOn the initiative of the lighting company Zumtobel Group, photographer Iwan Baan and architect Francis Kéré set out to capture how the sun's natural light cycle shapes vernacular architecture with little to no artificial light sources in Burkina Faso. They traveled to three exemplary locations: Communal compounds in Gando, the main mosque of Bobo Dioulasso, and the terraced houses in Dano, utilizing pots to create skylights. Baan's pictures are accompanied by architectural sketches by Francis Kéré, who himself grew up in this light environment and whose architecture is inspired by it. The stunning photographs are printed in a special technique to give a sense of being immersed in the very light conditions that are being documented.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe sun's natural light cycle plays a significant role in shaping vernacular architecture in Burkina Faso. The country's rural communities have developed unique architectural styles that utilize the sun's light to create warm and inviting spaces. One of the most notable features of these buildings is the use of small, narrow windows and doors that allow for minimal sunlight to enter while still providing ventilation and natural light.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother important aspect of vernacular architecture in Burkina Faso is the use of natural materials such as clay, wood, and thatch. These materials are readily available in the region and are used to construct buildings that are both durable and sustainable. Clay is particularly popular for its ability to absorb heat and regulate temperature, making it an ideal material for building roofs and walls. Wood is used for structural support and for creating beautiful decorative features such as carved doors and windows. Thatch is used for roofing and provides a natural insulation against the hot sun.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVernacular architecture in Burkina Faso also reflects the cultural and religious beliefs of the local communities. Many buildings are designed with specific religious or cultural symbols in mind, such as mosques, churches, or temples. These buildings are often decorated with intricate carvings and paintings that reflect the local culture and traditions.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn addition to its functional and aesthetic qualities, vernacular architecture in Burkina Faso also plays a crucial role in preserving the country's cultural heritage. Many of these buildings are centuries old and have been passed down through generations. They provide a glimpse into the past and help to maintain the identity and traditions of the local communities.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDespite the many benefits of vernacular architecture, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of recognition and support for traditional building practices. Many modern buildings are constructed using imported materials and technologies, which can lead to the erosion of traditional building styles and practices.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTo address these challenges, there are efforts being made to promote and preserve vernacular architecture in Burkina Faso. One of these efforts is the creation of cultural heritage parks and museums that showcase the country's traditional building styles and practices. These parks and museums provide a platform for the local communities to share their knowledge and skills with visitors from around the world and help to raise awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn conclusion, vernacular architecture in Burkina Faso is a unique and beautiful form of architecture that reflects the country's cultural and religious beliefs, as well as its natural environment. It plays a crucial role in preserving the country's cultural heritage and provides a sense of identity and belonging for the local communities. However, there are challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that this form of architecture continues to thrive in the future. By promoting and preserving vernacular architecture, we can help to ensure that this important part of Burkina Faso's cultural heritage is passed down to future generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 965g\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 330 x 240 (mm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9783037786864\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Francis Kere","offers":[{"title":"Paperback \/ softback","offer_id":44101482873082,"sku":"9783037786864","price":46.41,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/1646373703086_book.jpg?v=1646983486","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/momentum-of-light-9783037786864","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}