Envelope Architecture
In envelope architecture envelopes are used as a tool for
drawing within the room. The envelopes juxtaposed within the room constantly
refer back to the space, for example the rectangular blocks of white and grey
respond to the walls and floor of the exhibiting space. The envelopes also reveal
the details of the room such as the white opened envelope placed which
highlight the direction of the light switches. At the same time the
architecture also inform us about the nature of envelopes, for example the
security envelopes placed below the window that enables us to notice the
windows of the envelopes themselves.
There is an obvious contrast between the ephemeral and
soft feel of the envelopes and the solidness of the architecture. In this
antagonism the torn edges of the envelopes have the effect of softening the
harsh lines of the architecture and become a method for understanding the room
in a more intimate and tangible way. This is understood especially in the
placement of envelopes in the lockers as the ordered blocks of grey are
interrupted by the original torn edges of the envelopes.
The enlarged silhouette created by the over head
projector enables us to focus on the originality of the envelope’s line and
shape whilst not detaching the from the original. The projection shows how each
opened envelope is a unique drawing. In this way the projector acts as a
metaphor for what I am doing; I am drawing in the space.
The work of Daniel Buren has been particularly important
in my response to the exhibition space as I have explored the relationship
between the artwork and architecture trying to achieve a sense of “belonging”
between the two. The works of Arte Povera artists such as Alighiero Boetti have
also been important in my choice of materials inspiring me to explore the value
and detail of the quotidian.
