Design Activism

L Arch 571A Community Design Research/ MW 10:30-11:50/ Instructor: Jeff Hou

How can designers and planners become active agents in making positive changes in the world? How can design and planning be part of a movement for social and environmental justice? How can activism reinvigorate the social practice of architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, and planning?

‘Design Activism’ encompasses a wide range of socially and environmentally responsible actions in design and planning. From community advocacy in American inner cities and the tsunami relief efforts in South Asia to proposed alternatives to Seattle’s waterfront planning, the involvement of design and planning professionals testifies to the significance of design activism in making positive social and environmental change.

This seminar examines the dialectic connection between activism and design/planning practice as well as the politics and ethics of engaging in activism in the context of design and planning. The course covers both theoretical frameworks and practical tools of citizen movement and social/environmental activism. Discussion will be informed by cases studies from Seattle and abroad. Guest speakers include Jim Diers (founding director of the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods), Milenko Matanovic (Executive Director, the Pomegranate Center), Brice Maryman (Seattle Parks for All), and Ben Spencer (Assistant Professor, Landscape Architecture).

The best way to know about activism is to engage in it. Students are encouraged to explore opportunities and undertake direct actions. The seminar also complements L ARCH 503 Community Design Studio that provides the grounded experiences for reflection and discussion in class.