The Living Learning Center
Ecological Building in the Desert

As we re-learn how to build safe, healthy, sustainable structures for ourselves, our families, and our communities, we will develop building models that will benefit generations to come. It is our hope that the construction of the Living Learning Center will provide the Hopi people of our community with new skills and valuable lessons in unity and reciprocity. We envision learning and sharing innovative ways to work towards creating self-sufficient, autonomous communities.

Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture

Background
Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture is a community group based in Kykotsmovi Village within the Hopi Nation in Arizona. Tutskwa means “the life ways and knowledge of the land,” an important part of mission of Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture: to create opportunities for community members to participate in the continuation of Hopi culture. The Living Learning Center will help fulfill this mission both in its construction and its use.

The Black Mesa region of northeastern Arizona is home to both the Navajo and Hopi peoples. It is also the site of great environmental degradation. The non-profit Black Mesa Water Coalition addresses issues of water depletion and the exploitation of natural resources, while promoting positive alternatives. As a supporting partner in the project, Black Mesa Water Coalition will be able to move its office from Flagstaff to the Living Learning Center, one of the first office spaces for rent in Kykotsmovi. 

Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture and the Black Mesa Water Coalition are collaborating with Kleiwerks International for the design and construction of the Living Learning Center.

GOALS
The Living Learning Center will provide:

Community Space

• A gathering space, office, and internet access for members of the Hopi community.

Cultural Preservation

• A seed library for traditional Hopi crops and other valuable seeds.
• Learning opportunities about traditional Hopi stone masonry and earthen plasters.

Environmental Stewardship

• A demonstration center for rainwater harvesting, solar and renewable energy and ecological building techniques.

Economic Opportunity

• Economic opportunities in construction and innovative natural building technologies for members of the Hopi community.

MORE INFORMATION
Contact:
west@kleiwerks.org

Visit:
Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture http://www.nativemovement.org/nativemovement/bioregional/kykotsmovi.html
www.BlackMesaWaterCoalition.org
www.NativeMovement.org -Native Movement is the fiscal sponsor of Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture.

Read:
Project Summary
A recent news article about Hopi Tutskwa Permaculture

Back to Main Page | Back to Top

Stay tuned for updates and new workshop information.