SEMINAR DESCRIPTION

Does architecture always need to be physical? What ways of spatial expression, notation, extension and new awareness can be achieved and designed through media? And what role could AR play in (re)programming and extending existing spaces, in exhibition design, performance spaces or within the confinements of our own habitat?

In this course we will investigate possibilities of virtual and augmented space population through  playful use of digital technologies. We will look at different approaches of immaterial architecture in order to develop ephemeral, audio-visual objects, structures or installations which stand in dialogue and emulate new experiences in relation to an existing architectural context and artistic practice.

IN DIALOGUE WITH PETER WEIBEL & OTTO WAGNER

Peter Weibel (1944–2023) was an Austrian artist, curator, and theorist known for his pioneering work in media art, conceptual art, and interactive installations. His work explored the intersection of technology, society, and perception, often challenging traditional artistic and cultural norms. Many of his works had a strong socio-political dimension, critiquing surveillance, power structures, and the media’s role in shaping reality.As the director of ZKM (Center for Art and Media) in Karlsruhe, Germany, he helped establish it as a major institution for media and digital art.

A single conceptual artwork from Peter Weibel will be selected by each project team and with the means of contemporary design, digital tools and AR - re-interpreted in the setting of the Postsparkasse´s main iconic grand hall.

In 1903 Otto Wagner presented plans for the new headquarters of the Postsparkasse that would mirror the bank's modern procedures. The building is regarded as an important early work of modern architecture and was constructed between 1904 and 1906 using reinforced concrete. Through the main entrance at Georg-Coch-Platz the visitor ascends a flight of stairs to the grand Kassenhalle. The hall is designed with a large glass skylight allowing natural light to enter the heart of the building at all times. Natural light is not used only for stylistic reasons, but also to reduce the cost of electric lighting. Even the floor of the main hall is constructed of glass tiles, allowing natural light to reach further down to the floor below, where the Post Office boxes and mail sorting rooms are located. The hall is one of Otto Wagner's most famous masterpieces, and one of the finest examples of the Viennese Jugendstil. 

OBJECTIVES

The course will teach and introduce students to:

1. conceptual development of spatial strategies and thinking
2. contextual anchoring and relating projects to Peter Weibel and the space and architecture of Otto Wagner
3. use of new/old media (3D, video, images) in innovative ways for the development of installations
4. the use of AR as a medium of implementation

DISSEMINATION - EXHIBITION

The outcome of the course will be shown in the main hall in collaboration with the AIL from June, Angewandte Festival 2025 in until the Peter Weibel Exhibition in November 2025.

MODALITIES

Every 2 weeks (Friday from 10:30am to 12:15pm) with lectures, external input, conceptual development and feedback and continuous project development in mixed groups.

MISSING THE INTRODUCTION LECTURE WILL RESULT IN CANCELLATION OF COURSE PARTICIPATION.

MISSING 3 COURSE DATES WILL RESULT IN CANCELLATION OF COURSE PARTICIPATION.

Regular attendance and active participation in group discussions is expected. (30%)

Each participant is asked to give a presentation of the concept and the theoretical and technical background of the project (10-15 min) and hand in an exhibit until the End of May . The exhibit shall be a spatial investigation and critical examination and design proposal within the context of the venue using AR/VR for implementation. (50%)

Each participant is asked to provide feedback and project documentation(video and audio) to one other work. (20 %)

PARTICIPANTS

This seminar especially (but not only) addresses students of Architecture, Transmedia Art, Transart, Art and Science,  Cross-Disciplinary Strategies, Digital Art and  Experimental Game Cultures. 

The course is limited to 15 participants.

Note: It is administratively necessary to register for both LV with the respective numbers:

S04211(Bence Pap) + S04243(Valie Messini) each a 2ECTS