The continuing evolution of Indigenous design

In Australia, and many other countries with colonial pasts, mainstream design has largely eschewed both Indigenous design and designers. But, with increasing recognition of Indigenous peoples’ ancient and enduring connection with the land, this is starting to change. So what can the design sector learn from Indigenous design and are there principles in Indigenous design that could be utilized for sustainable design today.

At the end of this panel, attendees will be able to:

• Name at least three types of Indigenous design
• List at least 3 ways how Indigenous design has influenced modern Australian design
• Show how Indigenous design can be sustainable
• What are some ways architecture courses can better teach Indigenous design?

Competency Standard – Design: Schematic Design
Relates to: 4.2 Evaluation of design options against values of physical, environmental and cultural contexts.