International Workshop for
Science and Art 2026

Arisa Wakami (Tokyo Zokei University)

Sharing Perspectives and Visualizing Memory: The Potential of Documentary Animation (In Japanese)

Speakers: Arisa Wakami (Tokyo Zokei University) and Akiko Sato (Joshibi University of Art and Design)

Ye Zhang (Tianjin University)

PLAY with MATERIALS-material-oriented computational design and robotic construction

Abstract: Algorithm technology and computer simulation tools enable material performances involve in decision making process, generating reasonable design geometries and effective construction approaches. In this talk, I would like to share 7 pavilions that I have designed and built in China, using different materials such as concrete, fiber-glass, wood, expandable polystyrene, etc. The design process explores how the properties of these materials are embedded in computer models and how they affect the geometric behavior, manufacturing constrains and assembly logics of the pavilions. In contrast to the traditional sequence of designing the form, then analyzing the structure, and finally filling it with materials, we believe that the elements of a building are not independent. Digital technology can help us collaborate among material performance information, design decisions, and construction techniques to balance the innovation and rationality of architectural design.

Biography: Zhang Ye is an Associate Professor in the Architecture Department at the University of Tianjin, where she is also a member of the university's Digital Design Lab. In her teaching role, she is responsible for the following; teaching design studios, workshops, and seminar courses where she explores the concepts of materiality, design systems, computational design techniques, and fabrication processes in contemporary architecture and design. Her research field mainly comprises two parts: digital fabrication, and digital simulations of architectural material's behaviors. Her work on interdisciplinary design research connects architecture, engineering, and computations to explore the ecosystems of contemporary urban environments. It seeks to develop and speculate upon new knowledge for architecture, where the practice of design engages in both social constructs and material performances on numerous scales. Another of her research topics is dynamic performances of architectural materials. In her recent research on the hydro-deformation of wood and its digital simulations, by connecting material sciences with mathematic models, computational technology and architectural design, she designs a software which can analyze and simulate wood dimensional changes in different humidity environments. Through this research, wood deformations in architectural design can be treated as positive characters instead of negative ones as they can be predicted, controlled, and organized. Zhang Ye's professional history includes working for the Advanced Design Lab of Tokyo University. She participated in several research projects which have been published and widely exhibited in Japan. She teaches design studios, workshops, and seminar courses where she explores the concepts of materiality, design systems, computational design techniques, and fabrication processes in contemporary architecture and design.

Kensuke Hotta (Keio University, PO_Limited Liability Company)

A Daily work of Computational Architect

Abstract: What does a Computational Architect do, a job that is unfamiliar in Japan? The title I have come up with is a job title that I have been shaky in defining myself, but it is a profession that does not design buildings as objects, but rather works with projects or 'auxiliary lines' of design. I would like to introduce the contents of this new kind of work.

Biography: Tokyo-based Computational Architect (CA), an engineer who uses computers and algorithms to design and support design. He obtained a degree from the newly established PhD course in architectural design at the Architectural Association. He then moved to Japan, where he founded and incorporated his own profession as a CA. He specialises in generative design and human-computer interaction. He works on various designs, including architecture, as well as project planning and drafting. His favourite food is snow crab. He has worked for several architectural design firms in practice and continues to work for several major firms. He also runs his own companies, POLLC and HQLLC. He has also worked as a researcher at the University of Tokyo and Keio University.