Taking Cappadocia as our
point of reference, put outside the global system of big cities, platform_c
established an interdisciplinary laboratory for creative experience.
Centered around architecture and art - but crossing the borders to other
disciplines such as anthropology, design, history, comparative cultural
studies, environmental studies, etc. - platform_c will provide an opportunity
to develop strategies for the sustainable future development of our
environment.
Cappadocia will not only
be a concrete example for platform_c, but also a source of inspiration
- what we might call a "landscape of reflection". The tradition of careful
coexistence between man and nature, and the very special way in which
Cappadocia's inhabitants integrated their life into the natural landscape,
form a stimulating basis for platform_c's creative laboratory.
Platform_c does not see Cappadocia
as an open air museum, but as a living environment, and will search
for concepts that emphasize an active vision for the future of the area.
Besides protecting and revitalizing Cappadocia's uniqueness, platform_c
will be concerned with rethinking and redefining the relation of humans
to the natural environment in a contemporary way.
The meaning of place and
location in a globalising context, how is identity obtained in more
and more trans-cultural environment, what is the position of nature
and environment in a rapidly urbanizing world, are some of platform_C's
central topics.
The platform_c academy, to
be first held in September 2000, will be composed of two parts, a workshop
and a final symposium. The academy will give students and professionals
the opportunity for both concentrated work on projects in the concrete
context of Cappadocia and for discussion on a wider range of interdisciplinary
topics.
Platform_c integrates global
and local interests, encouraging collaboration with Cappadocia's inhabitants
in order to build up a regional and international network that extends
beyond the one-dimensionality of touristic interests. The workshop will
cooperate with local craftsman and artists, attempting to integrate
the rich source of artistic expression that comes from a long artisan
tradition in Turkey and Cappadocia.