MSA Portfolio

UCAS ID: 1889006309

STATEMENT

My interest in studying at Manchester School of Architecture is driven by the range of architectural exposure from the city's own structural diversity to the introduction of real-world projects where I can directly engage with the environment and thus improve my architectural knowledge. With the variety of facilities and workshops offered through the unique collaboration of both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, the accessibility of these offered resources will benefit my learning as I will be academically stimulated by the constant change in surroundings and experiences. As Manchester School of Architecture is home to the largest Architecture Student society, I hope to have the opportunity to gain creative exploration as well as be a part of a supportive and dynamic architectural community.

Recently, I had the chance to visit St Paul’s Cathedral which was a captivating experience. The blend of Classical and Baroque elements intertwined with the collections of intricate mosaics and sculptures struck me and deepened my interest in the historic appreciation of architectural buildings. Furthermore the various structures accompanied by the decisiveness of the use of space and light provided me with an insight into the intersection of different aspects to create significant thought - provoking and inspiring architecture. What I found the most interesting was the beauty of the religious symbols within St Paul’s Cathedral which encapsulates that this architectural phenomenon can also serve as an artistic expression and identity for Christians.

The Barbican Centre is by far my favourite building. The Brutalist design covered in raw concrete aesthetics and thoughtful spatial design creates a unique and tranquil environment. The variety of spaces offered varies from theatres, art exhibitions, concerts, libraries and more - this demonstrates that the Barbican centre attracts a range of target audiences as well as allowing individuals to discover and learn about other interests within the same building. Despite the fact that it’s a public space, the complexity of its hidden gardens and vast open spaces allows there to be new discoveries with each visit creating a sense of separation and solitude away from London's chaos. 

The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba in Andalusia, Spain is an architectural beauty that I hope to experience. Its fusion of both Islamic and Christian architecture creates mesmerising and breathtaking designs. The centuries of diverse cultural blend from its intricate Moorish arches to its Christian altarpieces shows that despite its cultural and religious transformation it still serves as a historical reminder of its past. Seeing this firsthand will allow me to deepen this insight.

 Saber Tooth Tiger  Skeleton

My interest in the structure of animal skeletons stems from my fascination in anatomy and how it varies from species to species.

Throughout this observation, I utilised the black and white charcoal to convey the deep shadows as well as light reflections alongside sharp, rough strokes to reflect the rigid and decaying structure of bones.

Goat Skull

 I experimented with a ballpoint pen to create a smoother transition between the light and dark.
Like charcoal, Ballpoint pen is highly dependent on pressure enabling me to achieve a high level of depth.

To mimic the texture of the bones, I used oil pastel which also helped present a rich and expressive form of the skull, contradictory to its known decay and fragility. 

Shells 

The strength and rigidness of exoskeletons is ultimately portrayed through shells.

In these studies, It gave me the opportunity to undersnd the dimensions and shapes.

In these Still Life studies (using oil paint and graphite), I explored the effects of composition, light and texture have on creating balance and depth between the shells.

Insects as Predators

Here, I chose to utilise Mantises to portray the underlying violence and brutality of Insects.

Unlike the acrylic, with oil paint I was able to reflect a much smoother texture and the vibrancy of the Mantises body, presenting its beauty. This contrasts from the its eerie eyes and form of posing

Hands in Motion

In this acrylic piece, I created a triptych to explore the extent physical poses are as a form of expression through hands.

I intentionally used different levels of pressure to exaggerate and create distinct emotions.

Architectural Model

Project on the exploration of gates and kiosk in relation to the necessities and situations of the employees in the building as well as geographical location .