Innovative study abroad program looked at ancient water systems

The South Asia Center’s Spring 2011 Speaker Series welcomes Victor Tzen, Assistant Professor of Architecture at SU,  on Monday, February 6 at 11:40 p.m. in 341 Eggers Hall. Tzen’s talk will be on the nature and effects the step wells and stepped ponds have had on life and culture in Rajasthan and Gujarat area of India over the years, based on a four week long study abroad.  During the summer of 2011, Tzen had the opportunity to travel with Emera Bridger Wilson, Outreach Coordinator at the South Asia Center, and 13 enthusiastic students to Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Step wells and stepped ponds have sustained the arid regions of North India since ancient times. These human achievements somtimes served as the only source of water for the region that experiences seasonal monsoons followed by long dry periods. A significant part of life and culture of the region, the step wells and stepped ponds are as much a result of necessity as they are an architectural marvel. According to Tzen,  these systems were borrowed, utilized, and adapted over time resulting in a palimpsest of cultural and physical changes.  The program was organized around thematic student-led research projects at four case study wells in Amer, Bundi, Ahmedabad and Patan. Students worked in interdisciplinary teams to investigate the topics of space, urbanism, health and community as related to the wells.

For the complete Speaker Series schedule, click here.