I believe Manchester School of Architecture would be my
ideal place to study architecture. When I visited the school it was in
temporary accommodation which was a fantastic space but the prospect of studying
in brand new state-of-the-art learning facilities really excites me. At the
University Open Day, I was given the impression, by the way that classical and
modern architecture are intertwined, that to study in such a prestigious
environment where there is clearly a high level of architectural awareness
would inspire me to develop my personal ability in turn. Furthermore, I was
enthused by the whole attitude towards study and design when I visited MSA. I
believe what appealed to me more than other universities was that it seemed to show
a greater interest in the welfare and progress of students and truly understand
the pressures and requirements of the modern student. I also believe that I would
benefit greatly from being in such a vibrant city as Manchester with all its
heritage and culture.
Recently I have visited the Holburne Museum’s new extension in
Bath and had the opportunity to sketch and draw it. This new extension by Eric
Parry is of great interest to me because I was able to watch its construction
and development and able to see at first-hand how a structure like this is created.
It shows a contrast between classical Georgian and modern architecture. Moreover,
I greatly enjoy the museum’s exhibits as again there is a contrast of older
art, mainly from the 18th-19th Century, against more modern works of art and
photography, such as the recent Sir Peter Blake exhibition.
My favourite architect is Frank Gehry. His architectural
work and style of deconstructivism has been an inspiration to me throughout recent
years and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao was my main stimulus for originally planning
to study architecture. I found this edifice extraordinary; intriguing and striking
all at the same time. Equally, it was the first gallery I had experienced that
included such an interesting range of art and that encompassed the building
itself in its exhibitions. I also find Gehry inspirational because of what he
managed to achieve despite his harsh upbringing and religious difficulties of
his time.
Following on from this, a building I would most like to
experience myself would be the Walt Disney Concert Hall in California, also
designed by Frank Gehry. The apparent chaos of its structure contrasting its
smooth fluidity shouldn’t work, yet the building itself looks, in my eyes,
perfect. I have had the opportunity to draw from books and pictures, but
experiencing any building for real always has a much more personal impact and feels
more impressive.
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