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Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

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Spatial Design

Semester 1 · 47206 · Master in Critical Creative Practices · 6CP · EN


This course provides students with a first set of conceptual and design tools capable of generating a critical understanding of spatial dynamics in artistic and design practices, as well as of their implications in political-relational terms.

Lecturers: Davide Tommaso Maria Pierfelice Ferrando

Teaching Hours: 60
Lab Hours: 0
Mandatory Attendance: not compulsory but recommended

Course Topics
The students will be invited to investigate a case study that represents - critically and paradigmatically - the way in which the contemporary city grows. After making emerge the complex network of stories that participate in its cultural and material construction, the students will be asked to realize an installation/intervention capable of making one of such stories publicly visible. Exemplary works of contemporary spatial practitioners will be used as references for the development of the students' ideas. The final part of the course will be dedicated to the design and realization of an exhibition that will gather the most relevant material produced during the semester.

Teaching format
The teaching format will be a mix of seminar sessions, workshops, students presentations, and studio reviews.

Educational objectives
Educational objectives Develop a Critical Understanding of Spatial Dynamics Equip students with conceptual tools to analyze and interpret spatial practices and their implications in artistic, architectural, and design contexts. Explore the Political and Relational Dimensions of Space Foster an understanding of how spatial design influences and reflects power dynamics, social relations, and political processes. Integrate Transdisciplinary Approaches to Space Encourage students to engage with critical perspectives on space drawn from art, architecture, and design to build a holistic understanding of spatial practices. Bridge Theory and Practice Through Assignments Provide opportunities for students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical exercises, enhancing their ability to translate critical ideas into spatial design solutions. Strengthen Analytical and Communicative Skills Train students to critically engage with readings, seminars, and discussions, developing their capacity to articulate spatial concepts and practices effectively. Learning outcomes Knowledge and understanding: Knowing the history of spatial practices in art and design, and their main techniques and methodologies; Possessing specific knowledge on the interactions between space and culture and on the sociopolitical implications of spatial practices; Understanding the processes of transformation of space in the contemporary context, analyzing them considering the connections with other fields of knowledge, such as sociology, anthropology and urban sciences. Applying knowledge and understanding: Designing and implementing spatial interventions, exhibitions, artistic installations and design projects that explore and reinterpret public and private spaces; Using reading, analysis, mapping and visualization tools to analyze and communicate complex ideas relating to space; Creating spatial interventions that respond to the needs of communities, promoting inclusiveness and social participation. Making judgments: Applying the knowledge acquired in the professional context; Design original projects that take into account the transformations induced by globalization and internationalization processes. Communication skills: Using visual and multimedia tools to create engaging and informative presentations. Learning skills: Strengthening the critical and operational autonomy of students; Developing their ability to choose, compare and adapt to new knowledge and technologies.

Additional educational objectives and learning outcomes


Assessment
The final exam will consist in the display and presentation of the work done during the semester, and in particular, in the presentation of the students projects. N.B. – ALL STUDENTS TAKING THE EXAM AS NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS MUST AGREE UPON THE CONTENT WITH THE LECTURER.

Evaluation criteria
The final evaluation will be the sum of three criteria: a) active participation in the course (10 points) b) originality and finalization of the project (10 points) c) accuracy of the project presentation and display (10 points)

Required readings

Nishat Awan, Tatjana Schneider, Jeremy Till, Spatial Agency: Other Ways of Doing Architecture, 2011



Supplementary readings

Michel de Certeau, The Practice of Everyday Life, 1980

Davide T. Ferrando, The City in the Image, 2018

Davide T. Ferrando, Daniel T. Munteanu, Another Breach in the Wall, 2022

David Harvey, Rebel cities : from the right to the city to the urban revolution, 2012

Rory Hide, Future Practice: Conversations from the Edge of Architecture, 2012

Andrés Jaque / Office for Political Innovation, Superpowers of Scale, 2020

Henri Lefebvre, The Production of Space, 1974




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Sustainable Development Goals
This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the following Sustainable Development Goals.

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