Nation, city, place: Rethinking nationalism

Abstract

In the past two decades academic interest in, and discussion of, identity and place mainly arose in the context of globalisation, its drive to homogenise culture and the role architecture may play in resisting the negative effects of excessive economic power. Nationalism, another potent political driver with a major influence on place, has not gained as much attention. Nation, City, Place: Rethinking Nationalism, a conference initiated by Anoma Pieris and Julie Willis from the University of Melbourne, provided an opportunity to realise that, while we are fascinated with the concept of shrinking time and space, 'old-fashioned' nationalism still plays a significant role in shaping our environments and, in return, our psyches. About 30 presenters from around the globe gathered at the Faculty of Architecture, Building & Planning on a July weekend to share their knowledge and case studies. The opening session focused on museums, one prevalent type of iconic architecture that encapsulates the way public education to nationhood continues to construct psyches, and perhaps is even further reinforced within globalisation.