CAAD Practice: W34C - Web3 for Creatives

Abstract

Within a decade, digital technologies based on decentralization and cryptography have challenged their internet infrastructure by proposing a new Web3 model built on decentralized technologies like blockchain and the generative potentials of AI. The course will explore the practical potentials and challenges Web3 technologies offer for future creative practices.

Objective

● Introduction to novel Web3 Technologies: Learn the related concepts of Blockchain, Smart Contracts, Tokens, and DAOs. ● Critical assessment and discussion: Engage with Web3 creatives, industry leaders, and researchers for deeper insights. ● Practical use with a case study: Organize a creative practice based on these learnings and collaboratively create a digital pavilion in a decentralized manner.

Content

What are Web3 technologies and their mechanisms? How are they used by acknowledged artists and emerging architects? What is at stake in digital industries, and what are the active research topics? Do these technologies challenge the traditional professional structure of the studio by proposing potent alternatives? The course will start with these questions to depict in broad strokes the rich ecosystem that Web3 technologies may practically offer for creative practices. Along with the course lectures, successes, potentials, and failures will be discussed and identifi ed with a cohort of external lecturers from the industry, research, and the arts. This course is particularly relevant to students who wish to question and assess the relevance of Third Generation Web technologies in crafting the future of their practice. Every session will begin with a lecture introducing a particular aspect or case study, followed by a critical discussion and a practical exercise. Each session is envisioned as self-contained with minimal homework to promote time for refl ection in between. Materials and information for the course will be provided on the offi cial website of the course: https://web3.arch.ethz.ch/

Resources