Last week, students from the Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings & Biocities (MAEBB), along with students from Fabricademy and others attendees, participated in a 2-day workshop led by the Dutch artist and activist Claudy Jongstra in Valldaura.
The two-day workshop Transformative Ecosystems, promoted by IAAC and hosted by Valldaura Labs, was organized to discover the regenerative, ecological, and inclusive practices of Studio Claudy Jongstra as they source, cultivate, and process natural materials.
The first day started with opening remarks by IAAC founder and MAEBB Co-director Vicente Guallart, followed by a lecture led by Biodynamic Farmer Angel Amurrio. Claudy Jongstra then introduced her work to the participants, providing insights into her artistic process and the sustainable practices embedded in her work.
The event continued with foraging in the Collserola forest, as participants discovered natural elements that would play an important role in the upcoming workshop. The exploration of the forest aimed to gather materials that aligned with the regenerative and sustainable practices advocated by Studio Claudy Jongstra.
The following day was dedicated to immersive workshops, each offering a unique perspective on sustainable craftsmanship. Participants delved into the art of wool felting, guided by Claudy Jongstra’s team expertise, revealing the intricate techniques behind transforming raw wool into textured and expressive surfaces. Simultaneously, the exploration continued with workshops on plant-based dyeing, and staining wood with natural pigments.
These hands-on sessions not only allowed participants to acquire practical skills but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of art, nature, and sustainability.
About the Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings & Biocities
The Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings and Biocities is an 10-month immersive academic programme focused on learning how to design and build a new generation of buildings and cities to respond to the planet’s emerging climate challenges.