Exercise 1.1 a

I like the idea that a field can unite a space. There can be two different components but have one unifying factor through the field. In addition, I found it intriguing how you can focus on one field condition to make something new. The idea that points on the field can be connected is a great way to imagine how our brain works physically to analyze points in an environment to make something new.

I found it interesting comparing western architecture with classical architecture. I was interested in how some people believe that if the structure doesn’t change over time (like the Great Mosque of Cordoba), that it should be commended. On the other side of the argument, throughout history there is great architecture that has been modified over time. The conclusion that I came to is that change is inevitable, and modern architects should embrace that change and design for the future rather than the present.   

The minimalism movement was intriguing to me because I liked the idea of taking one idea or component and creating something beautiful out of that. I found it interesting that during this movement the reading said that sculptures should work with other components in the space. Before reading this I always imagined a sculpture to be a work of art that is supposed to almost jump out at you. It gave me a different appreciation of the field and how even a sculpture could share field components with other elements to create a unifying space.

Fields seem almost part of our nature. I found it interesting reading about Craig Reynolds “boids” and how from their nature over time they created patterns. I felt that this showed how naturally humans enjoy patterns because it is something familiar. This is why field conditions usually have patterns to unify the field. I also noticed how patterns tend to show a flow, which creates repetition that can be seen in most architecture throughout history. This shows the importance of patterns and repetition. 

The reading says that historically humans have always gravitated to things with a clear axis, symmetry, and hierarchy. I feel like this idea is almost a genetic trait engraved in us as humans. I feel it is necessary to break from this one dimensional grid and connect different components on the field to create something new and inventive for the future, rather than being stuck in the grid of the past.