Located in the village of Sinthian in southeastern Senegal, this project introduces a new cultural center designed to support and inspire the local community. Jointly funded and designed by the Joseph and Anni Albers Foundation in Connecticut, USA, in collaboration with Sinthian’s local government, the center officially opened on March 4, 2015.
Its primary purpose is to provide accommodation for visiting international artists, fostering opportunities for residents from Sinthian and surrounding areas to explore new creative methods and develop their skills. Additionally, the center includes facilities such as a marketplace, educational spaces, performance areas, and gathering spots, serving as a vital hub for the community. The center aims to offer artists a meaningful, immersive experience within the local environment.
The program, known as THREE, invites artists from various disciplines—including painters, sculptors, photographers, writers, and dancers—from around the world to provide mentorship and inspiration. This initiative brings international visibility to the West African region. The cultural exchange began in 2013, initiated by Wayne, featuring performances from the renowned McGregor Random Dance Company.
Esteemed New York architect Toshiko Mori generously donated her design services for this project. One of the buildings has been honored with the AIA New York Chapter Award and was selected to participate in the 2014 Venice Architecture Biennale. The design emphasizes the use of local materials, with local craftsmen sharing their expertise in bamboo, brickwork, and thatched roofing techniques. This collaboration merges traditional building methods with Mori’s innovative architectural concepts.
The distinctive inverted sloping roofs are designed to collect rainwater efficiently, reducing household water consumption by approximately 40%.
Nicholas Fox Weber, director of the Joseph and Anni Albers Foundation, reflected on the project’s philosophy: “When Joseph and Anni Albers established this foundation, they believed that creating art and overcoming challenges brought balance and hope. Anne Albers often spoke about the importance of ‘starting from scratch,’ while Joseph celebrated the miracles that experimentation could bring. THREE embodies these values.”
Local leader Dr. Magueye Ba, together with the non-profit organization AFLK, manages a medical center in Sesia, established the village’s first kindergarten, funds teacher salaries, and supports new agricultural initiatives. With the Joseph and Anni Albers Foundation’s support, the village now celebrates an opening ceremony that enhances existing infrastructure and further encourages creativity within the community.
Project Drawings
▲ General Layout Plan
▲ Basic Plan
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Elevation View
▲ Sectional View
▲ Analysis Chart
▲ Detail Image
▲ Detail Image
Project Information
Project Type: Cultural Center
Location: Sinthian, Senegal
Architect: Toshiko Mori
Year Completed: 2015
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up