|
STRONG EMBRACE
conducted by BENJAMIN BALL
workshop outline
Through a series of exercises involving mock-ups, students will explore the design of structures that envelope space and respond to the conditions of a chosen physical context. Using simple materials such as string, zippers, and paper, students will develop an understanding of a fundamental type of natural structure, minimal surface, and then use that structure as a virtual armature for creating structural skin systems based on parametric "rules".
Equilibrium / Gravity
The combination of net structure and textile elements allows to exemplify visually the means of shaping and controlling aspects of force and tension: for the observer gravity becomes visible. Investigating the structural potential of material, every aspect of tensioning or knotting evokes change in the overall form/ shape. Any change will cause structural consequence through the consistency in the structural layout. The suspended knot enhances equilibrium and at the same time manages to visualize actual weight and tension.
CONFIGURATION 1
Net structure becomes configured in particular places through the usage of cable ties (symmetrical layout).
main elements: net structure, rags
supporting elements: cable ties, belts, additional hardware
CONFIGURATION 2
Net structure will be suspended from all six existing columns (diameter: 1m) - hanging lose in the open space above the staircase -it exemplifies how it achieves a specific form mainly through gravity.
characteristics of net: light, soft, elastic, flexible, provides a regular system of structural nots
CONFIGURATION 3
Rag pieces will be sorted by colour and knotted to each other forming long structural ropes they become weaved into the net, enhancing the specific shape of the net structure.
characteristics of rags : they can be twisted, plaid, knotted, tied, stuffed, tightened, colourful.
CONFIGURATION 4
Some extending textile ropes wrap around existing columns, substituting supporting belt therefore becoming structural elements within the system. Others become weaved into a big knot introducing additional weight with respect to aspects of equilibrium and physical interaction.
Exhibition: The documentation of the 1:1 installation was documented and discussed at AFO Linz.
