Digital Archaeology: Last Chance!

The Canadian Centre for Architecture trilogy ends on Sunday. Under the theme Complexity and Convention, theexhibition Archaeology of the Digital features 15 pioneering projects in the use of digital tools in architecture. How can new technologies be adapted and integrated into architectural practice? During the 1990s and 2000s, architecture went through a pivotal period in which digital experimentation gave way to the integration of production standards that now influence speed, cost, complexity and innovation in building design. Digital technologies testify to a transformation both of the design process and of the architect’s role, noted curator Greg Lynn, known for his pioneering use of computing. At that moment in history, architecture crossed a threshold in the digital field beyond which many of those pioneering technologies became the norm. The final part of Archaeology of the Digital brings together

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built and unrealized projects from Europe, Japan and the United States. The themes explored are high-fidelity 3D, topology and topography, photorealism, data, and structure or cladding. Mirko Zardini, director of the CCA, explained that the trilogy captures moments in history. New experiments came from architects’ interests and from the new tools available. In 30 years, architecture has been completely transformed; in architectural design, this digital revolution is comparable to the Renaissance. The CCA’s acquisition strategy aims to chronologically document and tell the story of this evolution, and to develop expertise in digital archiving. For Romain Duguay, director of external affairs, Archaeology of the Digital shows the direct contribution of technology to architecture. It is not simply about drawing new lines. Technology makes it possible to exploit the changed relationship between environment, topology and building. We do not always realize that digital technology goes beyond sound or light. Traditional industrial sectors are undergoing a major transformation. Archaeology of the Digital: Complexity and Convention is presented at the CCA, 1920 Baile Street, until October 16. Source: CCA. For full details, consult the related page, event page, exhibition page and partner links provided here.