20th Anniversary home

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Celebrate Innovation and Artistry at DesignBuildUTAH's 20th Anniversary!

Dates: March 22, 2024, to April 3, 2024

An invitation to Bluff, Utah for a transformative two-week long celebration combining the realms of architecture and artistry in recognition of DesignBuildUTAH’s 20 years of innovation. Envisioned to transcend a regular commemorative event, this gathering is brimming with an array of special programs amidst the magnificent canvas of Utah’s natural beauty.

Outdoor Sculpture Projects: Engage in a collaborative and hands-on experience creating outdoor sculptures alongside our expert instructors and enthusiastic attendees. But it’s not all about construction; the event is a cornucopia of entertainment, learning, and cultural exchange awaiting your curiosity and participation.

Workshops and Demonstrations: Delve into the world of music and food through our workshops, enrich your mind with thought-provoking discussions, and be amazed by demonstrations of Japan’s expert craftsmen and their masterful techniques. A nurturing space where your creativity is not just ignited but encouraged to reach new creative horizons.

Community and International Talents: We’re uniting the local Bluff and Navajo Nation communities, DesignBuildUTAH program alums, and internationally acclaimed professionals from Japan. This convergence offers a unique blend of perspectives and experiences, as individuals from various walks of life come together to inspire and learn from each other’s talents and creativity.

Be Part of Our Story: This special event is an open call to partake in meaningful activities, forge new connections, and craft unforgettable memories. As we celebrate DesignBuildUTAH’s 20th anniversary, we are not only honoring the past but paving the way for the future of collaborative design and community-building.

Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by. Join us in creating an extraordinary chapter in the story of design and unity that you will hold dear for years to come!

The DesignBuildUTAH 20th Anniversary Event is an affair brimming with a colorful and fun atmosphere, where attendees can enjoy themselves to the fullest. You’ll have the chance to indulge in the joy of handcrafting beautiful construction projects and participating in creative workshops and lectures. By joining the DesignBuildUTAH 20th Anniversary Event, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in new art experiences and encounter amazing works. Don’t miss out on this special event—join us and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Main Event

2 weeks long Sculpture art construction workshop

DesignBuildUTAH is commemorating its 20th anniversary with a flagship event—a two-week construction project called “DON-DON DEN-DEN”! This project is all about community involvement, where locals come together to build a unique and meaningful space.

The name “DON-DON DEN-DEN” comes from Japanese onomatopoeia, capturing the essence of gradual engagement and unity. With each passing moment, participants find themselves more involved, like being drawn into a gentle vortex. The rhythm of this project mimics the beat of drums, spreading a comfortable energy throughout. “DEN-DEN,” with its connotations of a snail’s spiral shell, signifies the gradual growth of the project as participants work together to extend and shape a comfortable environment.

Plans include shaded resting areas, new pathways, and communal spaces for children and adults alike to congregate and enjoy conversations—a special structure where happiness and synergy are the foundations.

During the two-week construction period, participants can leverage their own ideas and craftsmanship to contribute to the community’s enrichment. As everyone works with their hands and shares the excitement, we hope you’ll feel a sense of giving back to our local area.

Don’t miss out on the main event of DON-DON DEN-DEN—early ticket reservations are recommended to ensure you snag those at a preferential rate!

To learn more and book your ticket, please click the link provided:

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Workshops, Exhibitions, & Lectures

Ignite Our Community Spirit with a Fortnight of Fun and Learning!

An Unforgettable Experience Awaits! Prepare for an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression with DesignBuildUTAH’s 20th Anniversary Event! We’re not just talking about the DON-DON DEN-DEN construction endeavor spanning two weeks; we’ve lined up a series of delightful events guaranteed to bring joy and excitement.

Build and Bond with DON-DON DEN-DEN

Under the guidance of professional architects and designers, you’ll collaborate to construct a communal space in the spirit of unity and creativity. Roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the joy of physical creation—this is a dream come true for DIY enthusiasts and craft lovers. Here’s your chance to transform your visions into reality while contributing a special spot to our community.

A Festival of Fun Beyond Building

In between building with DON-DON DEN-DEN, indulge in a variety of entertaining activities. Participate in discussions, witness live demonstrations, savor cooking classes utilizing Japanese and local ingredients, appreciate the arts, and enjoy live musical performances. Not only will you gain deeper knowledge about architecture and design through our lectures, but you will also have the chance to engage with cultures through culinary explorations. Revel in the beauty and expressive power of local artists’ works in our art exhibitions, and let the soothing sounds of music elevate your experience.

Capture and Share Your Memories

We’re thrilled to share the snapshots and stories from this 20th-anniversary event with you. We invite you to contribute your own photos and experiences from the workshops and events, which we’ll be delighted to showcase on our website and social media channels. Every moment counts—your participation and contribution are invaluable to us. Stay tuned as we regularly update images, articles, and event details. Your enthusiasm and creativity fuel our collective excitement! Be sure to check out all the information for a fantastic two weeks ahead.

Let’s come together and share the joy of uplifting our community!

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Instructors

Celebrate the Joy of Creativity with Local Artists at DesignBuildUTAH

DesignBuildUTAH is thrilled to invite a diverse array of instructors from different fields for workshops that celebrate the joys of creation alongside local artists. Our special line-up includes architects, plasterers, landscapers, instrument makers, and farmers, all bringing their expertise straight to you.

Architects: Unlocking Creativity and Knowledge

Our architects come equipped with unique methodologies and design philosophies, ready to impart their knowledge and skills to participants. Through their ideas and experiences, you’ll learn and find joy in engaging with real architectural projects.

Mastering Spaces with Plasterers and Landscapers

Plasterers and landscapers will share their techniques for crafting beautiful spaces and gardens. Under their guidance, you’ll get to try your hand at creating artful spaces that blend aesthetics and nature.

Tune into Craftsmanship with Instrument Makers

Instrument makers join the lineup to deliver music workshops where you’ll learn about crafting instruments and the art of playing them. Dive into the enchanting world of music and experience its captivating allure.

Cultivate with Farmers: Growing Knowledge and Connections

And let’s not forget the farmers, who will bring the knowledge of Japanese agriculture and hands-on farming wisdom. Working alongside them, you’ll learn about authentic agricultural practices and deepen your connection with nature.

Our instructors play a key role in transmitting the excitement of creative work, offering rich experiences and knowledge in their respective fields. Learn alongside them, and enjoy creative pursuits with our community of local artists and musicians.

Funding

This program has received funding from Utah Humanities. Utah Humanities enriches our cultural, intellectual, and civic life by providing opportunities for all Utahns to explore life’s Utah Humanities.

Sponsors

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or a supporter of DesignBuildUTAH, please feel free to reach out to us. We warmly welcome partnerships with those who are willing to support the activities of DesignBuildUTAH. We would be delighted to have your cooperation in making our events and workshops a success through the resources, experiences, and expertise that you can offer.

With your sponsorship or support, we will be able to host better events and conduct more impactful workshops. We will acknowledge the generous contributions of our supporters by featuring your name or logo on our website and acknowledging you during our events. We value the relationship we build with our sponsors and supporters and see it as a mutually beneficial promotion opportunity for both parties.

If you are interested, we would be pleased to hear from you.