From 8 April to 21 June, 2024 I’ll be doing a residency at Spreepark Artspace in Berlin, Germany as part of the Animal Architecture Collective.

About the Animal Architecture Collective

The Animal Architecture Collective is a multidisciplinary team consisting of Cardoso Studio, Jennifer Turpin and Feral Partnerships. Together they have over thirty years of experience making large scale art works and researching complex environmental issues by way of creative practice. With a passion for natural history and biodiversity, the group explores how human and animal built form can connect contemporary urban life to the undervalued and wondrous skill of animal architects.

Research approach

The Animal Architecture Collective aims to use the residency to focus on architecture made by animals. Their project asks how can multi-species architecture be observed, incorporated and appreciated in the everyday operations of this urban park? Inspired by the buildings of animals such as ants, bees, birds, fish and small mammals, the group’s ambition is to reconnect the lives of humans to the incredible artistry / making skills / creativity of other animal architects, animal artists and animal designers.

About Cardoso Studio

Cardoso Studio is led by the artist duo Maria Fernanda Cardoso and Ross Rudesch Harley. Renowned for its innovative blend of art, science, and technology in projects such as The Cardoso Flea Circus, their work has been showcased at prestigious venues as the Centre Pompidou in Paris, New York MoMA, and the Sydney Opera House. Together they have developed a multidisciplinary approach that captivates audiences worldwide, revealing the beauty and complexity of life through living interactive works of art, design, museology and public art.

Cardoso, a Colombian-born Sydney-based artist, channels her fascination with the intricate wonders of nature into her transformative artworks. Blending unconventional materials with art, science, and technology, her creations span sculpture, scientific research, public art and live performance.

Harley, Emeritus Professor at the Arts, Design and Architecture Department of the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, boasts a distinguished career that transcends traditional boundaries of creative arts research. He was Dean of UNSW Art & Design (2013-20), he was recognized in 2024 as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant contributions to tertiary education and the arts.

More information about the Residency at Spreepark Artspace here.