Based on the examination of tabooed spaces in the city, theses are developed that allow marginalised socio-spatial aspects to be included in design planning. Therefore, questions are posed to the existing urban space, which derive from the engagement with queer-feminist theory.
“Just as queer politics and intersectional feminism aim to dismantle systems of oppression and the patriarchy, a queer architecture must also dismantle historic systems of oppression within architecture, namely the act of designing and building as a tool of dominance over marginalized peoples.” (Éloïse Choquette 2020)
Tabooed City – Queerfeminist Learning from Heritage deals with actively forgotten spaces in Vienna that remain silent and socially a taboo due to patriarchal power structures. To this end, we are approaching the Wiener Gürtel in order to explore it on different scales and at various time layers. In search of tabooed spaces, we will explore the role of gender in these processes of marginalisation and how queer-feminist perspectives can help to change the way we perceive such places and how we can approach them as part of a planning process. After all, the politics of space is always sexualised (Colomina 1992).
Methods:
“The Master’s Tools Will Never Dismantle the Master’s House.” (Audre Lorde 1984)
By engaging with queer-feminist perspectives, the course aims to develop new tools that allow alternatives to the traditional methods used in the canon.
The course is part of a cooperation between different research departments. The collaborative research project is run in collaboration with Sophie Stackmann (251.883 Wahlseminar Denkmal + Stadt) and Theresa Knosp and Thomas Moser 251.872 Wahlseminar Titel Kunstgeschichte). A forum for discussions and workshops will be held on several dates. This will take place within the regular times of the course (Tuesday 1 – 6 pm).
Essential writings by queer-feminist theorists form the basis of the spatial research. Historical and contemporary texts are read for this purpose. While the design students will develop conceptual approaches for their design task, the students of the Wahlseminar will approach the topic on a theoretical level through engagement with the same theories. The Forum enables discussions and workshops on the topic. These are exhibited and presented at a final event. Four compulsory evening events (Wednesdays 18:00) – lectures and a round table – are currently being planned.
The events will be held in German, although English can be used if needed. Some of the texts will be provided in English, as will some of the lectures.
Lecturer:
Julia Nuler
further information:
Kick-Off: Tue, October 8th, 2024, 13:00 – 14:30, in Raumlabor, Hof 1, TU Wien
Meetings every tuesday 15:00 – 18:00.