Visiting Critic Studio 2006

Midterm Review Issues

Volumetrics of the Module
There was mention of the extraction/rotation of the my module and how it will inform the section. Whether the circle becomes a dome or a vault is something I had considered but perhaps should review.

Abstraction/Adjusting the Module
Something which I think is present in the design so far but that I wasn't conscious of is that the "trueness" of the forms becomes heightened in the ceilings and inaccessible spaces. Marco mentioned that attention should be paid to the ceiling spaces. I agree that it would further the expression of the mediation of the ideal /heavenly and the practical/earthly spaces.

Specific Architectural Details
Marco also discussed the potential effects created by choosing specific architectural features such as a sliding door versus french doors etc. Also floor finishes, how they contribute to the specific ceremonial/practical needs and their phenomenological effects.

Right and Left Beliefs and Perceptions
Tim brought up Tikkun Magazine and Rabbi Michael Lerner's new book "The Left Hand of G-d" as possible points of interest. Both deal with the religious left and dispelling the perception that all spiritual practices and beliefs are to the extremist right. In my research, I've found a lot of mention of the fear surrounding the religious courts and common misbeliefs that it is barbaric, absolute and extremist. Much of the counter arguments from the religious groups is that it is often the opposite. That religious laws are more flexible and sensitive to the specific cases, involved parties and communities than political civic or common laws.

Because I've chosen such a politically charged and controversial topic, I need to figure out how to address some of these issues. I think it is being addressed to some degree within the project currently in presenting the alternative dispute resolution and that the three celebrated spaces are divided among learning, main court, and religion/celebration.

Clarification of the Divisions
Unfortunately, it seems people jump to the conclusion that the clear division of the project into three sets of spaces is that each of the religions get their own rather than that the three spaces are divided by function which are shared by the three groups. I will have to keep that in mind in the final representations.

posted by Sarah @ 11:53 a.m.