Abstract:

Statement of issue/problem. collage = space + materials, space + materials = architecture; ? collage = architecture, architecture = collage; OR collage [Special characters omitted.] architecture.

Statement of significance of issue. On some levels, the above statement is a gross over simplification. It is clearly valid, however, to state that an understanding of collage inherently informs both our creation of space and our application of material. If collage can be defined as a collision of disparate elements, a juxtaposition or layering of materials and images, then collage architecture can likely be described as an occupiable space composed of a decompressed layering of textures, images, activities.

Method of inquiry. Through the examination of collage precedents and the production of collages during an independent study in the Spring 07 semester, a base will be developed from which collage [Special characters omitted.] architecture inquiries can be made, in the form of designed spaces. At this point, it would seem that collage can be used in the act of making architecture in two ways. The simpler, more obvious application of collage to architecture is referential: a collage can be seen as a found object which influences or inspires the making of architecture. A richer, more complex interpretation would be to allow collage to become generative, by combining the structures inherent in the act of making a collage with those inherent in the act of making architecture. This would result in an occupiable space composed of materials, which blurs the line between collage and architecture. Some vital questions include: How does a collage inform a plan? A section? An experienced space? How does a collage produce a plan? A section? An experienced space?

Expected outcome. First and foremost, these inquiries will provide a deeper understanding of a given methodology, a way of making in the world and interacting with the world. This thesis will also provide practical experience through application to design, through the following possible products: (1)?A designed space that examines how a collage can inform the production of an architectural space. (2)?A designed space that examines how, conversely, a collage can in fact produce an architectural space. (3)?An installation on campus, examining how students interact with full scale, occupiable collages. (4)?A paper compiling synopses of existing collage precedents as well as research into whether, and how, collage and architecture have come together in the work of artists, architects, and myself and what the implications might be.