Forms of Culture

Forms of Culture is an ongoing research and exhibition project examining how cultural activity is supported through architecture. Developed across Melbourne, Hong Kong and Ho Chi Minh City, it studies nine existing cultural buildings through drawings, interviews and testimonies. The project looks at both the visible and invisible structures that sustain culture. Building form, circulation and patterns of occupation are considered alongside governance, funding, rent, regulation, access and labour. Together, these conditions shape how cultural spaces operate and who can participate in them. Forms of Culture understands existing buildings as cultural infrastructure. Studios, theatres, clubs, arts centres and shared spaces provide the physical framework for cultural production, while the people who occupy and maintain them give these buildings their ongoing public value.

Client Independent research project Collaborators RMIT Architecture Vicky Lam Locations Melbourne, Hong Kong and Ho Chi Minh City Year 2022–ongoing Status Ongoing research Type Architectural research, cultural infrastructure, exhibition, publication Client RMIT Architecture Collaborator Vicky Lam Location Melbourne, Hong Kong and Ho Chi Minh City Country Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country, Hong Kong and Vietnam Year 2022–ongoing Status Ongoing research Type Architectural research, cultural infrastructure, exhibition, publication