The 147th Angan Lecture Series held on "Feminine Embodied Architectural Practice, Towards Spatial Justice"

The 147th Angan Lecture Series event titled "Feminine Embodied Architectural Practice, Towards Spatial Justice" featuring Architect Tumpa Husna Yasmin Fellows was organized by the Department of Architecture, School of Architecture and Design (SoAD) at BRAC University on Tuesday, 20 February 2024. Tumpa Husna Yasmin Fellows is an architect, an academic and a design researcher. She is an architectural design tutor at the Central Saint Martins. Prior to this role she has been a Senior Lecturer at the University of Westminster and a lecturer at the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. She is the co-founder of the practice ‘Our Building Design’ and the charity ‘Mannan Foundation Trust’.

The event was hosted by Zainab Faruqui Ali, Chairperson, Department of Architecture, SoAD, BRAC University. The first part of the event featured a presentation by the guest speaker, followed by a Q&A session with the students.

Through the comprehensive lecture, Architect Tumpa showcased her extensive works in rural Bangladesh and their influence on architectural practices in the UK. Divided into three parts, the presentation highlighted the innovative approaches adopted in response to the changing climate, particularly focusing on the Bengal delta region and rural female communities. Drawing from her PhD thesis, which emphasized participatory methods, Tumpa explored how her architectural practice engaged with local communities to address climate challenges. Notably, her collaboration in the Rajapur village since 2011, situated amidst major rivers, underscored the importance of community engagement and action research.

Tumpa emphasized the unequal burden on women in preparing for extreme climate conditions, prompting the development of innovative solutions such as water capture devices. Her works demonstrated in the lecture emphasized the intricate relationship between humans, water, and the environment, challenging conventional notions of man versus nature. Moreover, Fellows shared insights into how her experiences in Rajapur inspired projects in London, including a community art project celebrating Bangladeshi heritage in Whitechapel Gallery, London.

The lecture concluded with discussions on initiatives like FAME (Female Architects of Minority Ethnic), a women research network aimed at promoting diversity and inclusivity in architecture. Attendees gained valuable insights into addressing global challenges through collaborative and inclusive architectural practices.

Write-up by – Mahia, Lecturer, Department of Architecture & Upama, Teaching Assistant