Form(s) of Instability – Demonstrations in the Architectural Potential of Weakness
This research project uses weakness as a critical framework to investigate material phenomena with a performative relation to forces.
A PhD project by Karianne Halse
The investigations depart from discoveries and observations of material practices of traditional building techniques, which present alternative ways of approaching the relationship between materials, instabilities and forces – differing from conventional building practice. Instead of seeking control and resisting forces, the examples work with forces – giving in by taking a sacrificial role or leaving space for material (dimensional) changes. The research is propelled by a fascination and wonder of a material approach that seems increasingly alienated from how we think and build today.
The research identifies – and explores – an emerging gap between formal appearance and material behaviour in the normative architectural building practice. Thus, the research questions the dominant role of formal (numerical/geometrical) control in contemporary architecture, which seems to have led to a lack of attention and understanding of inherent material behaviour.
G. Vattimo’s philosophy of weak thought is used as a starting point for creating a theoretical framework constructed around the notion of weakness, supplemented by theories within the specific investigations and discussions that focus on performative and dynamic dimensions of the material. Furthermore, the notion of formless (informe, G. Bataille) is used as an operative term within the research. Formless informs the overall research framework of weakness on a material-specific level, giving attention to unstable and ephemeral material dimensions – and thus, contributing to an expanded and less fixed way of perceiving the material world.
The research uses artistic practices as a mode of investigation to establish an engagement with the material, seeking particular insights into experiential, performative and imaginative dimensions. Thus, the investigations aim to turn attention towards overlooked dimensions and unseen material sides of the well-known. These artistic investigations enable a closer look at particular material phenomena, establishing a situated perspective from which to unfold and establish connections and overall perspectives.
Accordingly, the overall research structure establishes a framework to support a discovery-led research approach and facilitate movement between theory and practice. The research is centred around a set of Demonstrations, which builds up from three overall research components; Measurings give (empirical) insights into particular material phenomena through artistic practices. The Operative Dictionary materialise and organises theoretical perspectives through terms on index cards. Moreover, Perspectives bring in external references from art, which contributes to material perspectives and theory from an artistic point of view.
This research endeavour, as an experimental practice, seeks to unfold potentials and gain insights into a process-oriented material approach, thus rendering visible inherent complexities, raising awareness and providing critical perspectives that can inform and discuss the architectural discourse.
Tutors
- Claus Peder Pedersen
- Jonathan Foote
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