ARC3016Y S
Instructor: John Shnier
Meeting Section: L0106
Tuesday, 2:00pm - 6:00pm; Friday, 2:00pm - 6:00pm

Drawing is, at its essence a form of Visual Thought; a method of investigating the world, generating ideas and when part of process or observation, a mode for self-discovery. Drawing has always been the primary activity that has defined the working practice of architecture. Drawing cannot be compressed into a one act, or an act of finality “once the thinking is done”. Perhaps more than any other time, we have the ability to re-consider drawing---and perhaps more than any other time, we have more resources and tools to do it with. The evolution of linking mind and idea through the manipulation of instruments via the hand has undergone an exponential adjustment. Is the act of drawing still the second nature of the architect? Is the line between intuition, method and logic easily transited?

The framework for this studio brings together an architect and an emperor; both individuals imbued with abundant curiosity and intellect and a predilection for invention and imagination. Yet it is the emperor who was the builder destined to realize his dreams and the architect whose formal work was, not corporeal; an architect that did not build. This research studio acknowledges the reality of our discourse; to merge imagination and reality and the application of theory, technique and various bodies of knowledge while applying critical thinking. A primary objective of this studio is to use the semester to develop discourse that can emerge as your Thesis project during your final term at Daniels.

The idea that Drawing can embody Thesis is explored through the project entitled: House for Piranesi at Hadrian’s Villa; a project that is at once directed and abstract; a project that will embody your thesis through the act of drawing. This study will take us to Rome to experience a city that embodies many of the themes of our research as well as will act as the inspirational site for your projects. The project will likely take the form of a large scale book/folio but will be discussed and finalized at the beginning of the semester.

Thesis Prep is very directly tied to this studio and requires students to create a film that represents their discourse through an iterative process that includes screenings of the work-in-progress throughout the semester.