Candidate Statement

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.