2018 Venice Architecture Biennale shortlist: Scapegoat Journal

At Scapegoat: Architecture, Landscape, Political Economy, we are deeply honoured to have made the 2018 Venice Biennale shortlist alongside Ja Architecture Studio Inc (Toronto, CA); and Patkau Architects (Vancouver, CA).

Congratulations to Douglas Cardinal, who, along with Anishnawbe Elders and Indigenous Co-curators Gerald McMaster and David Fortin, will lead a team of Indigenous architects from across North America to present UNCEDED!

From the Canada Council of the Arts press release: 

“I am honoured to accept this opportunity to show the true beauty and value of Indigenous Peoples, representing Canada at this most important and prestigious international architectural event. The soaring eagle, facing east to the Rising Sun, is the symbol of our connection to all of Creation where we approach all life, particularly our fellow human beings, with loving and caring. Like the Thunderbird, we are as “the Phoenix Arising out of the Ashes,” a people of resilience and beauty, despite the past degradations seeking to eliminate us.

We are a spiritual people, at one with Creation, living in balance and harmony with Nature. It is timely that indigenous architects from Turtle Island be given the opportunity to express their unique contributions to an expanding worldview.”
–––Douglas Cardinal, Presenter, UNCEDED

“Having represented Canada as curator to the 1995 Venice Biennale of Visual Arts, to be asked to be lead curator by such a distinguished group of Indigenous architects is both an honour and privilege."
–––Gerald McMaster, Co-Curator, UNCEDED

“There has been a lot of interest in Indigenous topics in Canada following the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. What is unique about UNCEDED is that it celebrates the role of Indigenous architects and designers in leading this discussion and we are honored that the importance of the Indigenous voice has been acknowledged.”
–––David Fortin, Co-Curator, UNCEDED

The full press release from the Canada Council for the Arts may be read here. 🐐