Baukultur Animation
Studio Miko x Baukultur
The Brief
Meantime Studio’s Hand-Drawn Animation for the Venice Architecture Biennale
Sectors: Non-Profit | Architecture
Services: Animation
Bringing Baukultur to Life
When leading branding agency Studio Miko began searching for high-quality animation companies, they were looking for a partner who could deliver something artful, meaningful, and technically strong enough to stand proudly on a global stage.
We were given the opportunity to take on this hand-drawn animated film introducing Baukultur, and the culture of building; on behalf of the Davos Baukultur Alliance and the World Economic Forum. The piece was created for the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, curated by Carlo Ratti.
As one of the most prestigious architecture exhibitions in the world, the Venice Architecture Biennale is a cornerstone of global architectural discourse. It was vital that the film was not only visually arresting but deeply thought-provoking.
The Approach
An Art-Led Approach to Baulkutur
The creative direction for the animation was led by Alwin Ediagbonya. His art-first vision helped translate complex, philosophical ideas into poetic, engaging visuals. Built entirely without voiceover, the film relies on a combination of evocative on-screen text and rich, illustrative storytelling to draw audiences in.
The animation was designed to run seamlessly on two large-format screens throughout the Venice exhibition, and later distributed online; a dual-purpose brief that required crisp clarity, considered pacing, and a visual language capable of speaking across cultures.
It means Building Culture.
Once you understand it, you’ll see it everywhere. And you are already part of it.
The Research
Championing Baukultur
The term Baukultur may be unfamiliar to some, but its relevance is universal: it’s about the impact of built environments on our quality of life. Whether we’re talking about a bustling square for congregation, a cycling lane nestled into a marshy green space, or a floating home built to withstand change – Baukultur asks us to think about places as more than just structures.
The animation culminates with the introduction of the Davos Baukultur Quality System and a growing alliance of global partners advocating for a better way of building.
The Impact
Norwich Creativity:
Global Impact
Serendipitously, members of the team had already been delving into the world of architecture. Reading up on how they transform a landscape, foster and shape cultures and impact the way we connect. The team therefore knew that working closely with The Davos Baukultur Alliance would generate the best results. Taking in countless of their examples of high quality building culture, while instilling the qualities of places that our well-travelled team have absorbed throughout the years. From the calm riverside next to our animation company in Norwich, to the fervent atmosphere of Africa.
This project exemplifies the kind of meaningful work we love at Meantime Studio: where design, animation, and social purpose meet. It’s also a testament to the strength of the creative community here in Norwich. For Studio Miko and the World Economic Forum to entrust us with a film of this scale (for an event of such global significance) speaks volumes about what’s possible when animation companies in Norwich are given the chance to thrive.
Credits
Creative Lead
Alwin Ediagbonya
Illustration
Alwin Ediagbonya
Brogan O’Grady
Animation
Alwin Ediagbonya
Cai Beschorner
Jack Purling
Martin Eke
Produced
Martin Eke
Sound Design
Luke Billing
Production Year
2025
Special Thanks
Alistair Millen, Thomas Selby
Related work
The Trussell Trust
Deborah