Competition

There have been a series of recent events that have taken place around the world that have tried to deny people their freedom of speech. Oppression and aggression takes place in countries across the globe on a daily basis, reminding us of the civil liberties that are often taken for granted. Therefore our Charlie Hebdo Portable Pavilion architecture competition is intended to create a travelling structure to exhibit the works of the outspoken publication.

The purpose of the structure is to deconstruct the idea of free speech, reminding visitors that freedom of speech is a luxury not all people can enjoy. The structure should educate people about the situation in countries around the world, and as such participants must think about both the design of the pavilion as well as the contents of the exhibition. The two aspects should be interconnected and demonstrate that sacrificing the liberty of free speech in exchange for security is something that cannot be tolerated.

The competition is not connected to a specific site; the pavilion should be transportable to any location around the world, and as such participants must consider how it can be easily dismantled and reassembled in different locations. Participants are allowed to select any site to demonstrate their designs - given that they explain why they chose that site in particular - but the design concept must be equally suitable in any location around the world.

Participants must consider and explain all the building aspects such as materiality, construction, psychological factors of the design, and exhibition contents.

While the pavilion is meant to be temporary, entries will be judged on their ability to leave enduring social and political footprints.

Eligibility: 

Competition is open for all. No professional qualification is required. Design proposals can be developed individually or by teams (4 team members maximum). 

Language: 

- Correspondence with organizers must be conducted in English
- All information submitted by participants must be in English.

COMPETITION ORGANISERS
Charlie Hebdo 
Portable Pavilion