Premiere Screening of Documentary on Architect Koji Yagi about the University of Saint Joseph’s Green Campus in Macao
Premiere Screening of Documentary on Architect Koji Yagi about the University of Saint Joseph's Green Campus in Macao
10
Dec
10/12/2024
USJ Macao is proud to announce the premiere screening of YAGI, an inspiring documentary featuring renowned Japanese architect and scholar Professor Koji Yagi and his contributions to architecture and education, particularly his role in the outstanding design of the USJ Ilha Verde campus in Macao.
The University of Saint Joseph (USJ Macao) is proud to announce the premiere screening of YAGI, an inspiring documentary featuring renowned Japanese architect and scholar Professor Koji Yagi. The documentary film premiere took place at Sophia University in Tokyo on the 21st of November of 2024, one day prior to the IAU International Conference in Tokyo, serving as a meaningful precursor to the conference.
[From left: Prof. Tetsuo Morishita, Prof. João Nuno Brochado, Prof. Álvaro Barbosa, Rector Stephen Morgan, Prof. Koji Yagi and spouse of him, and Prof. Thomas Daniell]
USJ Macao was honored to host Professor Yagi and his spouse for this momentous occasion. The screening was facilitated by Professor João Nuno Brochado, Head of the Department of Media, Art and Technology at USJ Macao, alongside Professor Thomas Daniell from Department of Architecture and Architectural Engineering of Kyoto University, as well as former Head of the Department of Architecture in USJ Macao.
Attendees to the premiere included the Rector of USJ Macao, Rev. Professor Stephen Morgan; Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs and Internationalisation, Professor Álvaro Barbosa; and Vice-President for Global Academic Affairs of Sophia University, Professor Tetsuo Morishita, along with former students from the Yagi Lab who contributed to this project and current students from Sophia University.
The documentary focused on Professor Yagi’s contributions to architecture and education, particularly his role in the outstanding design of the USJ Ilha Verde campus in Macao. This campus design project is notable as one of the few architectural initiatives undertaken by Japanese architecture students for the benefit of university students in Macao, embodying the theme of “Campus for students, designed by students.” The film illustrated the essence of applied research and pedagogy, showcasing how theoretical concepts were translated into practical architectural solutions that addressed the unique needs of the student community.
Through the lens of the documentary, viewers gained insight into the innovative architectural concepts developed by the students, which were informed by both traditional and contemporary design principles. Professor Yagi’s mentorship was a crucial element of this process; he guided the students not only in technical skills but also in fostering a deep understanding of the cultural and contextual factors that influence architectural design. His approach emphasised the importance of creativity, expansive vision, and collaboration, empowering his students to explore their own ideas while staying grounded in practical applications.
In conjunction with the film premiere, USJ Macao launched the second edition of the USJ Photo Album, which was distributed to guests in attendance. This album not only commemorated the remarkable endeavors achieved by Professor Yagi and his students but also served as a visual testament to the collaborative spirit that characterized their incredible work. It exemplified the spirit of cross-cultural design notion and intellectual integration that has defined this initiative.
Lastly, USJ Macao wishes to express the deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Sophia University for the generous support in providing the venue and facilitating the premiere of YAGI. Sophia University’s invaluable assistance has been instrumental in making this substantial event possible.
[Rector Morgan with former students of Yagi Lab]
[From left: Rector Stephen Morgan and Prof. Tetsuo Morishita]
