Each investigation arrived at a fictional narrative that fomented a common understanding of architecture and place that went well beyond geopolitical boundaries and territories. Some of the explorations included: a multi-purpose bridge that mediates climate events and sociopolitical turmoil in Padma, Bangladesh; a restorative sea-wall that protects from toxic emissions and preserves marine biodiversity in Odessa, Ukraine; a genetically-engineered eucalyptus that exacerbated wildfires and moved entire towns underground in Canberra, Australia; a series of mining machinery transformed into seed-proliferating vehicles that restore a damaged ecosystem in Tarkwa, Ghana. These provocations led to thoughtful conversations with architects and non-architects, who helped reimagine architecture’s roles and scope amidst the climate crisis.

Table Manners is a series of academically engaging events that prioritizes bringing people together in unexpected ways that foster connection and interaction. Together, faculty, students, practitioners, theorists, and others partake in discussions through formats including, but not limited to dinner parties, picnics, games of musical chairs, performances, and more. The series also entails a series of closed-doors sessions—intimate conversations that encourage guests to discuss ideas that are not typically discussed in public, but which can lead to thoughtful collective action. Together, these sessions propose new forms of architecture through events, happenings, and other spatial detours.

Location
Charlottesville, Virginia

Project Type
Exhibition