As a
modernly influenced city such as Manchester, studying within this historical
city allows me to become closely embedded with the variety of architectural
styles from the past and the present. From the gothic cathedral structure of
the Manchester Town Hall to the Modernist evoked structure of the Urbis
Building, there are countless opportunities for me to study and investigate the
different architectural structures the city has to offer. I believe the joint
collaboration of the MSA by two institutions allows extensive and effectuate
learning, being able to access resources and facilities from both institutions
is a rare and distinguished advantage to my studies. Provided the plentiful
expertise in teaching, I believe the MSA is a suitable place for me to improve
and enhance my skills in architecture.
As a
student currently doing Higher Level Art in the International Baccalaureate
Diploma, I have been in close interaction with the built environment around the
world. My investigation of the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong has lead to my
progressive interest in modernism. What fascinates me is how the skyscraper
endorses modern elements as well as historical aspects, with the implementation
of Roman arches to give the structure a hybridized style. Its location at the
business district of Hong Kong fortifies its significance, appearing as a large
glass curtain that shadows and mirrors over the HK skyline. The architect
behind this building, I.M. Pei, was a strong believer in 'organic' structures,
and I believe his inclusion of Art Deco and Bauhaus motives in the Bank of
China fulfilled his intentions of simplicity and solemnity, mirroring the
intentions of 20th century architect, Mies van der Rohe.
As the
founder of the phrase, 'less is more', Mies van der Rohe was a Bauhaus
architect that looked for simplicity and a memorable style in architecture. He
has been an inspirational figure to the development of skyscrapers in the past
century, with the birth of the Seagram Building in New York as a pivotal part
of our current built environment. His 'glass box' skyscrapers have become a
commonality in modern cities, and has been a basic necessity to the simple and
purposeful motive proposed by van der Rohe. In addition to the element of
simplicity, he had a strong passion for open space. With his 'glass box' approach,
he allowed maximum lighting in the interior, consolidating his name in environmental
sustainability in the modern era.
In the
future, I would like to visit the Pantheon in Rome, reflecting back onto the
historical elements of architecture in the Roman and Greek Empire. The
constructional brilliance and ingenuity of the dome and arches in the Pantheon have
triggered my continuous desire in architectural studies.
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