Weirs
Ancestral Water TEKnologies
"After centuries of symbiotic evolution, indigenous communities have developed complex farming systems highly attuned to local conditions. The positive, localized environmental effects of the ancient waru waru innovation show great potential for migration to similar ecosystems facing flood, drought, and other impacts from climate change. When distributed at vast scales this microtopography promotes biodiversity and sustainable food security year-round. The waru waru terraces that populate the Andean slopes are sophisticated technolo- gies that have transformed over a million hectares
of inarable land for agriculture.In a region of complex environmental conditions, where soil and climate limit food security, the waru waru system offers farmers an ecologically symbiotic and economic alternative."
Excerpt from Lo—TEK Design by Radical Indigenism
PHASE 1
IDENTITY
In this section we will be engaging the existential crisis — Who are you? Why are you here? What are you supposed to do while here?—as a catalyst for thought and discovery. This is where each individual connects themselves, their community, their family, their philosophies to the larger ideas, theories, concepts and research present across each technology. This is about authenticity and truly getting to know ourselves and each other while simultaneously engaging with global perspectives.
1 day to 1 week
PHASE 2
CONCEPT
In this section we will be excavating the intricacies of pertinent concepts and their impact on the global environment. While you explore make sure to pay attention to the context, interpretation, relevance and inquiry presented. The final step is a project based exploration that can be as in depth or as referential as you and your facilitators decide.
This exploration may involve whole class seminars, guest speakers and land excursions. Make sure you have thorough notes and follow the guidelines provided.
2 weeks to 2 months
PHASE 3
SYNTHESIS
This section introduces what it means to be an interdisciplinary minded thinker. The world is not segregated into subjects just like nature doesn't thrive when it is walled off. Here you will be introduced to several interdisciplinary majors that colleges across the country are now promoting. You will be asked to step outside of categories, labeling and segregation and empowered to connect, synthesize and transcend.
To address areas that interest you, regroup as needed to work independently or in pairs. If you are interested in an area that isn’t displayed then propose your own connective theory.
3 weeks to 3 months
PHASE 4
LIVING
This section puts theory into action through a series of hands on activities like learning to construct living fences, build earthen blocks, grow your own mycelium bricks, or create highly fertile ‘Amazonian’ terra preta soil. The living section is about empowering physical change in your neighborhood, your school, your organization or your home—the ultimate goal is preparing you for the physical work of your final project while simultaneously reimagining the future of our environment with nature based innovations at the forefront.