The practice of architecture has always been intertwined with the study of physics, both in structure and aesthetics. As the nuances of physics become better understood, architecture has the opportunity to grow and change, such as in Herzog and de Meuron’s particle physics-based designs. In the interest of nurturing the relationship between these two fields, the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the Department of Arts of the Federal Chancellery of Austria are teaming up to offer the Accelerate@CERN Austria award. Read on to learn more.
The award will grant one Austrian architect or designer the opportunity for an extended one-month stay at CERN, the largest particle physics lab in the world. CERN is devoted to the study of the very nature of time and space, and is perhaps most famous for its 27 kilometer-long large hadron collider, instrumental in the recent discovery of the colloquially named “God Particle.” CERN’s work in the understanding of human existence will be the inspiration for the Accelerate@CERN laureate. During their one month residency at the lab, the selected designer will develop and architectural project that weds design with the investigations being made there. The CERN laboratory describes itself as “the perfect environment to host and inspire an architect who is interested in developing their work in new and surprising dimensions.”
Accelerate@CERN is promoted and organized by Arts@CERN, a series of partnerships between the physics laboratory and professionals involved in the arts, including literature, dance, and sculpture.
Qualified applicants for Accelerate@CERN may submit their research proposals until February 9th, with winners being announced in the spring of 2015. The chosen applicant will receive a prize of 5,000 CH, in addition to paid travel and living expenses. Click here to see the full terms and conditions of the competition.
