The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced the L.K.E Ozolins EUROPA talks series. EUROPA focuses on the relationship between the UK and other European countries. Conversations between emerging architectural practices from Europe will provide a unique platform for international architects to engage in critical dialogues with UK audiences about contemporary architecture.
"The EUROPA talks will offer exposure to the most experimental approaches to architecture shaped by the different geographical localities, political and social realities of countries on the European continent," commented Meneesha Kellay, RIBA Talks Curator. "The series will bring fresh approaches to UK audiences, opening a new channel for rigorous debate. UK audiences are already exposed to established architects who have made a name for themselves globally, but RIBA wants this series to uncover emerging European talent who are redefining the status quo of architectural practice."
The talks will consist of presentations by four emerging architects from countries in Europe that share a border: two from one country and two from another; e.g. France and Belgium. The talks are chaired by UK architects, critics and academics who will respond to issues and themes raised in the presentations and stimulate debate amongst the panel and with the audience.
Running from September 2017 to April 2018, the series will launch with a special introductory talk by Sir David Chipperfield in conversation with Marcus Fairs, founder and editor-in-chief of Dezeen on September 6, 2017. All talks take place at the RIBA in London.