Indigenous architecture’s relevance to the modern world

Leading Indigenous architects will come together for a free public lecture in Brisbane, discussing state-of-the-art architecture designed for or by Indigenous people around the world. Influential Indigenous architects from three Pacific Rim nations will discuss their ideas on Indigenous architecture in an event at the State Library of Queensland on Tuesday, 17 January. Lecture co-ordinator Dr Kelly Greenop from The University of Queensland School of Architecture said the event was not only about acknowledging the past, but emphasising the importance of cultural heritage to cityscapes of the future. "It's the beginning of a broader discussion in which Indigenous architectural voices will be heard discussing contemporary architecture instead of being solely referenced in respect to history," Dr Greenop said. "The legacy of Indigenous communities has an ongoing role in maintaining the diversity of architecture across the globe. "Cultural values and perspectives should be incorporated into contemporary designs, reflecting the importance of a diverse and inclusive society that provides everyone with appropriate and enriching environments." The event, New Indigenous Architecture of the Pacific Rim , is supported by UQ's Indigenous Design Place (IDP) and School of Architecture, and State Library of Queensland's Asia Pacific Design Library. Speakers include Daniel Glenn, an award-winning architect from the Crow people on the West Coast of the USA, Carroll Go-Sam, a descendant of the Dyirbal people of Far North Queensland and architectural researcher at UQ, and Samoan academic and architect Albert L'Refiti.