Contribution - Daniela Salgado Cofré, Álvaro Mercado Jara, Rocío Mercado Jara, Matías Vallejo

Shapes, Veins and Territorialities of the Clay in Valparaiso

This research-creation project collects relational modes of material interdependence in the region of Valparaíso, Chile, through monitoring clay extraction spaces used by artisans and artists in an increasingly precarious context due to the urbanisation and the environmental crisis. The project makes visible the transformation of these lands by tracing the uses of the soil and identifying conflicts and values that emerge around these extraction sites. 

We conducted and registered immersive sensitive experiences of clay extraction in these spaces in order to trace their transformations. In parallel, with the clay extracted from each site, we created different experimental pieces. These materials are the inputs for a forthcoming exhibition that, by mixing scientific research with artistic experimentation in a geo-poetic approach, aims to promote reflexivity around these extraction spaces and inquire about the overexploited or rejected resources of the soil.

Funding: 

Department of Research, Vicerectorate of Research and Graduate Studies. Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile.

Researchers: 

Daniela Salgado Cofré, Professor of Design at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile. PhD Candidate, Sasha Lab, Faculté d’Architecture ULB. 

Álvaro Mercado Jara, Professor of Architecture at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile. PhD Candidate, Louise Lab, Faculté d’Architecture ULB.

Artists: 

Rocío Mercado Jara, Matías Vallejo

Year: 2021-2022