The exhibition by the French duo Stéphanie Bru and Alexandre Theriot, member of the jury of the BigMat International Architecture Award ’21, forms part of the renowned Baukunst series and is presented in collaboration with the Association of German Architects BDA.

Bruther was founded in Paris in 2007 by Stéphanie Bru and Alexandre Theriot and is one of the outstanding architect’s offices in France. In their work, Bru and Theriot want to respond to social issues and not be guided primarily by aesthetic ideas. The relationship to the place where their buildings are located is of great relevance to them. They regard the frequently tense social contexts in which their buildings are erected to be imagination-stimulating. Here they want to create a balance by means of their architecture.

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„Construire Libre“
April 29 – July 2, 2023
Kunstverein Bielefeld
 Welle 61, 33602 Bielefeld
Germany

Their approach is less one of urban planning than of architecture; in the eyes of Bruther, the latter is far more effective. It is fascinating to see how place both shapes and is shaped by their buildings.
For Bruther, architecture tells a story: a narrative that represents a very special journey for those who developed the building and for those who use it. But how should these narratives, which are made up of many individual stories, be told? What format does one choose to tell the work of this architectural practice? Stéphanie Bru and Alexandre Theriot explore this question in their conception of the exhibition CONSTRUIRE LIBRE. The exhibition series Baukunst (Architecture) is curated by Andreas Wannenmacher.

Bruther’s work goes beyond the mere pursuit of aesthetic ideals. With a focus on social issues, their buildings aim to address and respond to the needs and challenges of the communities they serve. The exhibition „Construire Libre“ delves into this aspect, showcasing how Bruther’s architectural designs aim to create a positive impact on society. By examining the frequently tense social contexts in which their buildings are erected, Bruther uses architecture as a tool for imagination and balance.

For Bruther, the relationship between a building and its surroundings is of utmost importance. They understand that the character and history of a place can significantly influence the design process. In „Construire Libre,“ visitors have the opportunity to witness how Bruther’s buildings both shape and are shaped by their environments. The exhibition reveals the profound connection between architecture and place, demonstrating how Bruther’s designs integrate seamlessly into their contexts, offering unique narratives in each location.

Bruther believes that architecture tells a story, representing a captivating journey for those involved in its creation and for those who ultimately experience it. „Construire Libre“ invites visitors to explore the narratives woven within Bruther’s architectural practice. The exhibition showcases how each project is composed of numerous individual stories, reflecting the diverse perspectives of the architects, collaborators, and users. Through innovative presentations and interactive displays, the exhibition provides a glimpse into the narrative-driven approach of Bruther’s work.

Curated by Andreas Wannenmacher, the „Construire Libre“ exhibition forms part of the renowned Baukunst series and is presented in collaboration with the Association of German Architects BDA. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the thought-provoking world of Bruther’s architectural vision. Through thoughtfully curated displays, multimedia presentations, and engaging installations, the exhibition offers.