politics of living by dot architects spawns small autonomous spaces at TOTO GALLERY･MA

Politics of Living at TOTO GALLERY･MA

‘POLITICS OF LIVING’ is a solo exhibition by dot architects presented at TOTO GALLERY･MA in Tokyo from 26 May to 6 August 2023. Through this exhibition, the architects delve into the potential of engaging everyone in the architectural creation process by utilizing accessible resources such as materials, workforce, social connections, and local networks. During the opening, designboom had the opportunity to join the architects on a walkthrough of the installations, which consisted of a series of small autonomous spaces accompanied by a range of engaging activities designed to involve and entertain visitors.

‘For us, the POLITICS OF LIVING refers to the dynamics of creating small autonomous spaces. LIVING refers to daily experiences through direct interactions,’ explained the team. ‘POLITICS is not a centralized system of indirect democracy but the power to create more localized autonomous spaces with both will and compromise and to autonomously generate individual lives imbued with diverse idiosyncrasies instead of lives equalized according to information, statistics, and future predictions. Let’s find a way to live together from our daily life on the ground. Let’s think based on the tangible reality of everyday life, and create with our hands,’ they continued.

generating small autonomous spaces throughout the exhibition

The exhibition at TOTO GALLERY･MA provides an overview of dot architects’ work, showcasing how they push the boundaries of architecture and explore new possibilities. Visitors can also enjoy the hands-on experience of crafting their own putter and playing on the putting golf course in the courtyard. The team at dot architects demonstrates a distinct approach that treats the planning, designing, construction, and use of architecture with equal importance. They meticulously address each step of these processes, emphasizing a comprehensive and holistic perspective. Their aim is to conceive spaces that foster inclusivity, welcoming everyone without discrimination, all under the concept of the ‘POLITICS OF LIVING.’

Through these activities, dot architects hope to ‘inspire viewers to stop entrusting their lives and enjoyment to services in exchange for money, breaking free from the body accustomed to sophisticated capitalist products, and say confidently, ‘Hey, we can do something like this ourselves. Let’s go for it!’ Through this exhibition, we hope to realize one such place.’ 

dot architects are actively engaged in creating vibrant spaces where people can live, work, and play harmoniously in various locations. Through their tangible and adaptable approach to place-making, dot architects gradually develop spaces that are perfectly suited for specific locations. They believe that the ‘POLITICS OF LIVING,’ characterized by the dynamics and interactions within ‘small autonomous spaces,’ hold the key to challenging the status quo and catalyzing societal transformation.

project info:

name: POLITICS OF LIVING

architects: dot architects 

venue: TOTO GALLERY･MA 

location: Tokyo

dates: 18 May – 6 August 2023