Each year, the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Architecture hosts an interdisciplinary symposium entitled Atmosphere, which explores the less tangible aspects of design and experience: the ephemeral, social, situational, emotional, elemental, phenomenal and epiphenomenal conditions of our shared world.
Taking place from February 6-8, 2014, Atmosphere 2014 focuses on action. “Action” shifts attention from designed objects to design motives, agencies, conditions and effects. “Action” poses questions about performative and collaborative modes of making and inhabitation. “Action” prompts designers and researchers to reflect on their modus operandi, and on the actions and interactions of the diverse materials, circumstances, policies and people they work with. “Action” invites consideration of the transformative agencies of situations and situated events.
They are inviting paper proposals for 20-minute presentations exploring one of the following six sub-themes: building acts, dwelling acts, representational acts, socio-political acts, environmental acts, and research in action. Proposals should be well grounded in historical, theoretical or creative research, and develop compelling arguments and insights that contribute to interdisciplinary knowledge.
They are also inviting proposals for temporary installations and short live performances (two to ten minutes) that demonstrate action-based research. These installation-performances will serve as engaging entr’actes between the primary lectures and presentations. Proposals should include clear intentions, a conceptual framework, and a detailed outline of spatial and material needs. Selected proposals will be eligible for $50-$250 in support, based on appropriateness and merit. Student proposals are welcome.
Please submit 300-word proposals by October 15, 2013 to [email protected] and clearly indicate the nature of your proposal (paper and sub-theme, or entr’acte). All proposals will be blind peer-reviewed. Notice of acceptance will be emailed by November 15, 2013. Confirmation of attendance and registration will be required by December 15, 2013.
For more information, please visit http://umanitoba.ca/architecture/atmosphere/submissions.html.