Nexus

The Manifesto for New Architecture results from the many years of professional experience of the Parisian architect, artist and sociologist Elizabeth de Portzamparc, as well as from the current social, ecological and economic challenges. The ten principles of its manifesto are based on the idea that architecture must enhance every interaction with the elements of its environment - both physical and cultural. The NEXUS exhibition exemplifies this philosophy and presents the adaptive methods that Elizabeth de Portzamparc and her team use to improve places and ecosystems and adapt them for new uses. Visitors to the exhibition are invited to explore the different methods and principles through 15 projects, including the internationally renowned Musée de la Romanité in Nîmes, the 'vertical village' and vibrant Citadelles district in Villejuif, the innovation and science centers in Biot and in Shanghai, the bioclimatic Humathèque university library in Aubervilliers and the stations of the Bordeaux Tramway.

Elizabeth de Portzamparc explains: "In some languages, the Latin word 'nexus' is given a logical meaning. 'Nexus' refers to a strong relationship that necessarily has a meaning, a motive, be it positive or negative. The term nexus therefore forces us to question the nature of this relationship: is it complementary or harmonious or, on the contrary, is it linked to domination or even destruction? Based on this understanding of the term nexus, I believe that the essence of architectural Interaction must be a relationship of enriching complementarity, regeneration, which is different from the concept of exploitation, connection, interrelation, transformation, development: 'Nexus' is everything at the same time.

For Portzamparc, the basic principle of life is anchored in the concept of nexus: “It is the interaction between living things and all living elements and describes a series of entities in constant exchange, defined by their mutual relationships. Through architecture's ability to shape space and life, it has a fundamental role in the game of evolutionary balance. In response to ecological, economic and social crises, it must provide solutions to restore the balance of ecosystems, involving humans and non-humans."

Opening on Friday, May 31st at 6:30 p.m.