“A New European Bauhaus”
Dear Colleagues,
Due to the ongoing COVID situation, we have started the autumn term at our individual schools in a wide range of teaching models, from regular in-person teaching in classroom and studio through all kinds of hybrid formats and blended learning to full online teaching. The unpredictable situation forces us to constantly evaluate what we do and subsequently adapt and change programmes, processes and actions.
What we have been experiencing since this spring has already triggered substantial debates in architectural education and research. The shift to virtual teaching has its positive and negative effects. Sometimes, even the most basic structures and values of universities are put into question.
But the crisis has also brought some important and positive impulses: On 14 October 2020, the president of the European Commission, Ms Ursula von der Leyen, has launched a project titled “New European Bauhaus” whose goal it is to strengthen the EU’s actions for sustainability in the architecture, urbanism, engineering, arts and design sector by means of initiating a new cultural movement in the European Union. Right now, under the leadership of the Architects’ Council of Europe ACE, EAAE is working with representatives from other professional organisations on a common statement regarding this very promising initiative. It is our aim to be actively involved in the dialogues with the EU Commission and the processes thus triggered. We will keep you informed on the next steps and programmes.
Another well-known initiative that EAAE is involved in is the Young Talent Architecture Award (YTAA), organised by the Fundació Mies van der Rohe with the support of the “Creative Europe” programme of the European Union. This year’s 4 winners of the YTAA and the 3 winners of the first Asia Edition of YTAA 2020 were announced on 5 October 2020.
Finally, please do not forget to register for our upcoming events:
- MILANO CA²RE and CA²RE+ from 28–30 October 2020,
- Research Academy Workshop on 10 November 2020,
- EAAE–ARCC International Conference from 11–14 November 2020,
I wish you resilience and health.
Best regards,
Oya Atalay Franck
President EAAE