Anishinaabe: re-examining the past

Abstract

Nature and human history are the guiding forces to ensure a prosperous future for many generations. Native Americans have a rich history of living off the land and being in close contact with nature in all aspects of their lives. They thrived for thousands of years with nothing more than what nature could provide. Their techniques and ideas towards nature and site are timeless.

We, today, could learn many sustainable practices if we study the natives’ traditions. Their history and ways of life must be reevaluated with todays technologies so that we may understand and learn from their ways.

My project is a 35,000SF Interpretive Reflection Center. The site sits on the White Earth Indian Reservation in North Central Minnesota. The main structure consists of a showcase space, classrooms and reflection pond viewing area.