Our site analysis this time was definitely broader. From the Institute of Contemporary Art in South Boston we had to consider the exterior space defined by the ICA's exterior auditorium steps, the cantilever and East Boston on the other side across from the water.
Although the ICA's building itself was not part of the analysis it is a crucial element to understand this space. As you can see in the pictures and sketches the particular shape of the ICA's building closes itself inland and opens up towards the water forcing us to be aware of the other side and forget inland.
The cantilever emphasizes this feeling because it frames and directs you view forward.
The specific location of the ICA, as you can see in plan, also forces our view forward due to the fact that it is surrounded by the fan pier and the pier 4. These two piers also act as directors or fingers towards East Boston.
The space is strongly defined south wise by the ICA that acts as a barrier from the rest of the city. To the west as east as mentioned before the space limits itself with the piers that run in the same direction as the cantilever. The space is also defined by the ground plane that continues with the water and the cantilever that continues with the sky.
Considering all these limits or barriers that define the space, it is very loosely defined north wise. The only limit is East Boston that at the same time for being to far away can prolong the view. In my point of view I think this is the greatest characteristic of this space, being so strongly defined which gives a sense of enclosure but being so open and loose towards the water as if it is expanded through East Boston and the horizon.
Considering all these limits or barriers that define the space, it is very loosely defined north wise. The only limit is East Boston that at the same time for being to far away can prolong the view. In my point of view I think this is the greatest characteristic of this space, being so strongly defined which gives a sense of enclosure but being so open and loose towards the water as if it is expanded through East Boston and the horizon.
This is a great space where you are protected by the sun with the enormous cantilever but still can experience a great summer or winter day (like Saturday). During rainy and windy days the cantilever wont protected you from the cold drizzle and wind coming water.
1 comment:
Isabel,
There are mixed results in your last two assignments. The Christian Science sketches, in perspective and plan, are better (almost like the Back Bay Fens) but in the ICA the sketches decreased and the photographs are better. I understand that the space in the ICA is more difficult to define but you have to be more precise in section and plan and keep using more shadow in your perspective drawings.
Manuel
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