The Hylozoic Ground Collaboration demonstrates how a theoretical idea, propelled forward through ground breaking research, can lead to a promising new branch of contemporary architecture. It charts the fifteen year, multi-continent journey of Philip Beesley’s “Hylozoic Series” that culminated in the Canadian entry to the 12th Venice Biennale of Architecture in 2010. The Hylozoic Ground Collaboration is Design at Riverside’s celebration and tribute to this exceptional body of work which weaves together structural engineering, artificial life science, hybrid architecture and art. The collaboration refers to the collective of designers within Philip Beesley’s studio, legions of dedicated students and volunteer teams, and to the ultimate fusion of expertise and innovation offered by primary collaborators such as Robert Gorbet and Rachel Armstrong.

This exhibition is a behind the scenes look at the sketch books, prototypes, drawings, and evolution of the elements that comprise the wonder and magic of Hylozoic Ground—a window into the intense research, experimentation, highly specialized technical expertise and countless hours behind the beauty and spectacle.

Curated by Esther E. Shipman

COME TO ALL THREE EVENTS:
Opening Reception: Thursday, September 8, 2011 at 6:30 pm
Key Collaborators Forum*: Friday, September 30, 2011 at 6:30 pm
Lecture: Thursday, October 13, 2011 6:30pm

CAMBRIDGE GALLERIES / DESIGN AT RIVERSIDE / August 18 - October 16, 2011

IMAGE DETAIL: Phillip Beesley, The Hylozoic Ground (detail), 2010.  Image courtesy of the architects. Photo: Pierre Charron.