Course Lecture

The Social Contract

Lecturer

Prof. Chun-han John Lin

Professor at the Faculty of Architecture, 

The University of Hong Kong

Introduction

We are in the midst of technological, environmental and social transformation. As we grapple with these challenges, it might be a good time to be an architect. While making architecture is a highly political act, it has shown timeand time again, its ability to transcend the politics of its era. Questions about the sustainability of the construction industry, and a shifting cultural and political landscape - might this focus our interest on how to re-use or recycle more, how to learn from vernacular ways of building, and new means of collective action?

John Lin will discuss his experiences running an architecture NGO, working with villages on the frontlines of the urbanization process, and building in China through collective processes of design and construction. He will present case studies of adaptability and ingenuity collected from rural journeys - demonstrating what Bernard Rudofsky called “the untutored imagination of the self-builder.” His recent design projects transform traditional dwellings with new technologies which engage indigenous craftspeople and local communities in the social act of architecture. From the art of building to the art of living.

Course Coordinator

Prof. Philip F. Yuan

Time

19:00-20:35

Venue