On 5th September 2024, the South African Institute of Architects will unveil issue 101 of its newly rebranded journal, Architecturesa, during Keyes Art Night. This milestone marks a significant shift in the journal’s identity, reflecting the evolving landscape of architecture in South Africa and beyond.
Dr Maape reflects on how “the culture” influences not only popular discourse but also the very essence of architecture. He says:
“In contemporary discourse, ‘the culture’ can refer to various facets of modern life, from popular culture to influencer culture. This powerful force has been shaping society for decades, from Andy Warhol to Kanye West’s ongoing confrontations with its drivers. Today, social media and AI are democratising and revolutionising the culture. The question is, what is the culture of architecture on the African continent, specifically in South Africa?”
The launch event will feature a panel discussion led by Dr Maape, joined by architect Simphiwe Mlambo, architecture student and student editor of Architecturesa Avela Swana, and Hip-Hop artist and podcaster Nasi (TauTona) Sebelo. This diverse group will explore how “the culture” relates to architecture, design, and artistic practice, offering fresh perspectives on the intersection of these disciplines.
As Dr Maape adds, the ambition of the new Architecturesa is to connect architecture to the people it serves, to discover, question, and shape the culture of architecture while respecting the traditions that still hold value.
The Architecturesa team aims to document and shape the future of architecture in South Africa, reflecting a society as dynamic and diverse as the architecture it creates.
