Providing the opportunity to spend eight weeks at the American Academy in Rome, the inaugural Alastair Swayn Foundation-RMIT Architecture (ASF-RMIT) Affiliated Fellowship supports the growth and development of early to mid-career designers who are emerging leaders in their fields.
A leading centre for independent studies and advanced research in the fine arts and humanities, the American Academy in Rome offers a stimulating setting for the Affiliated Fellow to work towards a specific project of their choice, cultivate their practice and make new interdisciplinary connections in the creative city of Rome and its surrounds.
Professor Tim Marshall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of RMIT’s College of Design and Social Context, said the fellowship is an extension of RMIT’s commitment to partnering with like-minded organisations in support of community enrichment.
“This fellowship is emblematic of a shared mission to support future-focused designers who are deeply engaged in their discipline and the advancement of the industry more broadly” he said.
RMIT Architecture forms part of the multidisciplinary School of Architecture & Urban Design within RMIT’s College of Design & Social Context. It is globally recognised for design excellence and innovation, and revered for its focus on driving cultural change through design.
Professor Vivian Mitsogianni, Dean of Architecture & Urban Design said that “RMIT Architecture is interested in ideas-led venturous design exploration, and we are delighted to partner with the Alastair Swayn Foundation and the American Academy in Rome to provide this opportunity to an emerging practitioner.”
The Alastair Swayn Foundation is dedicated to supporting the knowledge, research and education of all things Australian design. Through its philanthropic endeavours, the foundation supports individuals, groups and organisations in their pursuit of excellence and knowledge enhancement.
Alastair Swayn Foundation Chairperson Graham Humphries noted in relation to the collaboration, “We are honoured to be partnering with the American Academy in Rome and RMIT to bring this incredible opportunity to the Australian design community.
“Our founder, Alastair Swayn AO, believed design practice could be better informed and strengthened through building diverse and interdisciplinary connections. This Fellowship will enable individuals to build networks and enrich their practice through their residency, developing ideas and relationships that, in-turn can benefit the Australian architecture and design community.”
The fellowship will conclude with the Affiliated Fellow delivering a public lecture upon their return to Australia.
Applications for the inaugural ASF-RMIT Architecture Affiliated Fellowship are open until Wednesday 15 March 2023. For more information and to apply visit the application page.
Story by: Rosie Shepherdson-Cullen
