VORKURS: derive originated from twentieth-century theorist and philosopher Guy Debord’s definition, "a mode of experimental behavior linked to the conditions of urban society: a technique of rapid passage through varied ambiances.”1

A distinctive characteristic of both architectural education and practice is the presence of the unknown as a driver for how we think and make. This volume examines how to manifest discoveries based on exploring geographic and cultural contexts into thoughtful responses that strengthen existing conditions.

VORKURS: derive emphasizes the perspective of the collective rather than the individual. It frames the discourse as a host for multiple interpretations of the same experience As noted by Debord, “the most fruitful arrangement consists of several small groups of two or three people who have reached the same level of awareness, since cross-checking these different groups’ impressions makes it possible to arrive at more comprehensive conclusions"

VORKURS: derive rejects our currently mandated isolation (caused by the ongoing pandemic) as a practical mode of living in favor of one that is informed by serendipitous moments. The following words and imagery connect to weave a network of memories that become realized into projects.

We hope that this narrative will remind you of the marvelous world to which we will soon return, together.

-Verity Blevins

Executive Editor

1 Ken Knabb, ed. and trans. Situationist International Anthology. (Berkeley: Bureau of Public Secrets, 1995).

WHAT'S INSIDE:

TITLE

AUTHOR

SITE CASTINGS

PAUL O ROBINSON

FOLLOW THE LIGHT, FOLLOW THE MONEY

KOBINA AIDOO and RYAN C BRIGGS

IN, BETWEEN

ZACHARY WIGNALL

ARCHITECTURE AND CURATING

WENDY TEO

ENERGY FOR AFRICA: Micro-grids for sister cities

DONNA COHEN, AMIE EDWARDS, and JAMES INEDU-GEORGE

SPECULATING AFAR, EXPERIENCING NEAR

KRISTEL BATAKU