THE CHILDREN'S ART DISCOVERY CENTRE

Abstract

This thesis aims to sort new dimensions in architecture which enhance and at the same time inform of the importance of the "experiential" aspect of the Visual Arts. The main objective of this project is to "dis-compose" the function of Art buildings as being mere vessels for the containment of Art objects like painting and sculpture. It attempts to question how appropriate the environment of present Art schools and art classes are for the teaching and learning of the Art in terms of experience, not just the dissemination of skills and techniques. The vehicle chosen to test and execute the above aims is through a Children's Art Discovery Centre. It would be multi-faceted facility with Discovery Art Labs, Art school functions, exhibition gallery, research facilities and at the same time is also a part of the park and community space. It is where the teaching and learning of the Visual Arts is based on the process of discovery, intuition and hands-on interaction with the environment/ architecture, thus becoming the social topography of the place. Another objective of this thesis is also to review the integration of children's spaces within the urban fabric. Hence by siting of the centre in the city, on the Neil Road end of the under-utilised Duxton Plain Park, it would become an extension from the park; a further articulation of the Plain; as well as a means of negotiating with the existing fabric by injecting new activities and new life into the area. Various architectural strategies are explored based on the need for dynamic activity vs static functions, movement vs pauses, process vs destination, disclosure vs enclosure. By way of "Dis-composing" familiar elements, the ideas of controlled freedom, ordered disorder and constructed fragmentation can be brought through the design. A sunken courtyard, for example, will form part of the new "ground" which provides freedom of movement and at the same time form one of controls and orientation space for both the children and the public.