Open Call: Non-Extractive Architecture residency in Venice

Space Caviar and V–A–C Foundation have announced an open call for Non-Extractive Architecture, a five-month residency at V–A–C Zattere, Venice, Italy to research and speculatively outline a “non-extractive” approach to the built environment.

Non-Extractive Architecture is a year-long project created by Joseph Grima with Space Caviar, a design and research studio. The project aims to examine the material, socioeconomic, and environmental implications of architecture in the twenty-first century.

Ultimately, the project aims to redefine, through examination, public expectations of the architect and the architect’s responsibility as an agent of transformation. Further, it seeks to rethink the balance between built and natural environments and the role of technology and politics in achieving this balance. The project looks to engage individuals both within and outside the architectural profession by creating an open platform where design practices can be debated, redefined, and leveraged as a positive force to shape future urban and rural environments.

The residency will build off of the foundational research of Grima’s project and participants will work in close collaboration with Space Caviar to establish a “non-extractive” design methodology. Among other responsibilities, the residency will involve developing case studies that investigate new materials, building techniques, and economic models. Those chosen for the residency will design and curate a public exhibit to communicate conducted research, and will test prototypes, develop a design manifesto, and participate in the lecture series, symposia, and other events within the Palazzo.

Applications are being accepted from recent graduates and professionals with expertise in architecture, design, art, economics, material science, photography and filmmaking, coding, engineering, environmental science, political theory and activism, carpentry, and others. The residency will take place from September 2021 to February 2022, and participants must be available for the entire length of the residency.

To apply, send the following to residency.venice@vac.org by June 18, 2021.

• Letter of motivation in English highlighting relevant experience or expertise

• CV/profile in English

• Names and contact details of two professionals or academic referees familiar with your research

Learn more here.