Formation Sketch by Richard Goodwin

The creative team issued the comment:

“The selected formations represent a range of possible futures for architectural practice. From engagement with humanitarian causes to the creation of specialised technology and education networks for advanced material cultures, Australia has a wealth of innovation in its architectural community.”

As the profession of architecture registers the pressure of new economic, social and cultural challenges, this exhibition attempts to address such questions as:

  • How do innovations in practice increase opportunities to shape the built environment, and create new futures for the discipline?
  • How do we educate potential and future architects in light of such innovations in practice?
  • How do you engage the public with these forms of unexpected architecture?

By exploring the design methodologies, configurations and output of the six selected groups, Formations intends to stimulate compelling discourse about the future of the profession and alternate forms of architectural practice both in Australia and internationally.

The Architects live broadcast at ACCA. Photo: Tobias Titz

Creative directors Burke and Reinmuth will work in close curatorial collaboration with TOKO Concept Design to develop the exhibition with members of the selected ‘practice formations’. The aim is to bring together a wealth of experience in architectural practice and a deep understanding of evolutionary processes happening across the architectural profession.

The Venice Architecture Biennale is the most important international architecture event in the world, visited by thousands of the world’s most influential architects, designers, urban planners and critics, generating significant debate and commentary in both architectural press and wider media.

The Institute has coordinated Australia’s presence at the Architecture Biennale since 2006 and is committed to supporting the event until at least 2016.

The dates of the 13th Venice Architecture Biennale are yet to be announced. It is expected to take place from September to November 2012.