MIES IS +. Experimental Workshops on Contemporary Architecture 2026
The CGAC presents the eleventh edition of this series of workshops dedicated to contemporary architecture for children. As in previous years, the programme will conclude with a workshop designed for families.
The workshops, to be held on the last weekend of every month, will be run by architect Fermín Blanco with the support of the Lupo System teaching team. The goal is to provide the children with the tools and keys they need to interpret contemporary architecture through the theories, projects and works of the most important architects of recent times. Each edition approaches the themes in a transversal way, using architecture as the guiding thread.
The Lupo System promotes an active and experimental learning approach, combining theory and practice, where play is the main unifying element of a cooperative creative dynamic. Alongside its teaching strategies, Lupo is committed to developing cooperative play tools in which construction play lies at the heart of the investigation.
The practical component of the workshops is based on a series of modular pieces that allow multiple combinations, forms, proportions, balance games, and action strategies. The proposed dynamics encourage individual reflection and creativity, as well as teamwork through play and large-scale construction.
As usual in this programme, we will travel through time and space, changing continents with each session. We will begin with the great pioneering master and creator of the Paulista School, João Batista Vilanova Artigas, an architect devoted to a single mission: connecting architecture with society. We will explore the sensitive creations of Annette Gigon; architectures that listen will guide us through her gardens, revealing her understanding of architecture and its surroundings. Continuing with gardens and their riches, we will visit Quinta de los Molinos, the residence of César Cort, to learn about water and crop management in a magical space now serving as a youth centre. Yasmeen Lari will introduce us to barefoot architecture: a humble and unpretentious approach to design. The cycle will conclude with family sessions focused on natural construction, inspired by Joaquín Vaquero Palacios and his major work in Santiago de Compostela.
PROGRAMME
WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN
JANUARY. Vilanova Artigas. The Paulista School. Architecture and Society
Saturday, 31 January. For children aged 6 to 8 years
Sunday, 1 February. For children aged 9 to 11 years
Places: 12 / Registration period: 21-29 January
FEBRUARY. Annette Gigon. Architectures that Listen
Saturday, 28 February. For children aged 6 to 8
Sunday, 1 March. For children aged 9 to 11
Places: 12 / Registration period: 18-26 February
MARCH. César Cort. Quinta de los Molinos. Joint Action
Saturday, 14 March. For children aged 6 to 8
Sunday, 15 March. For children aged 9 to 11
Places: 12 / Registration period: 4-12 March
APRIL. Yasmeen Lari. Barefoot Architecture
Saturday, 25 April. For children aged 6 to 8
Sunday, 26 April. For children aged 9 to 11
Places: 12 / Registration period: 15-23 April
WORKSHOPS FOR FAMILIES
MAY. Vaquero Palacios: Large Scale
Saturday, 30 May. For families with children aged 6 to 8
Sunday, 31 May. For families with children aged 9 to 11
Places: 24 / Registration period: 20-28 May
LED BY
Denís Gándara
REGISTRATION
All workshops are free of charge. To register, please email cgac.educacion@xunta.gal within the specified registration period, including the following details: the full name and age of each participant, a contact telephone number and email address, the name and ID number of the person(s) authorised to collect the children at CGAC, and the name of the workshop you wish to attend.
A maximum of two participants may be registered per application. Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants will receive confirmation by email.