From Computation to Fabrication: Themes and (Mis)Paths in South America

Abstract

Digital fabrication has been slowly assimilated into South America over the last two decades. However, given the narratives and economic models of the Global North, it constantly faces the challenge of finding meaningful ways to apply these technologies in the local context. The article aims to critically reflect on the narratives, tensions, and disputes over technological hegemony in the relationship between the Global North and South, based on the recent panorama of digital fabrication glimpsed in South America, in cases that indicate themes and trends, application strategies, and local arrangements. It proceeds by reviewing concepts and events originating in countries with advanced economies and industries, analyzed in light of the relationship between coloniality and domination. Based on the mapping of information and systematic literature review, it presents elements of influence on the imaginary of recent production in the South American context, identifying thematic categories that validate unique emerging processes, converging the digital, cultural diversity, and intersectionalities into the production of design, architecture, and construction. The results show initiatives that seek autonomy by proposing experimental construction practices, investigating new materials, integrating and democratizing activities, and innovating products and industrial production processes.