Field Conditions, Stan Allen

From Object to Field

In this first section, Stan Lee begins by explaining the many ways in which field conditions vary. He speaks on how they can vary in amounts and sizes which I understand to mean that every field is different from the next because of how diverse field conditions tend to be. He then explains that how architects think of and define field conditions differently from how a general, an anthropologist, or a scientist would define them. He then brings up a very interesting idea of how it is that architects consider and incorporate art into their understanding of field conditions, He closes out the section by leaving the definition very broad but noting that it is very important to maintain the respect of each elements identity.

Geometric VS Algebraic Combinations

This next section opens by explaining how classical architecture is driven and organized by geometric systems as well as proportions. This speaks on how different ratios such as the Fibonacci or Golden Ratios have influenced and inspired many designer before. This does not only apply to architecture but to all fields that rely on ratios and proportions to create something beautiful or aesthetically pleasing. The rest of section names several iconic structures such as St Peters in Rome and the Great Mosque at Cordova. Building like these are still regarded ad some of the nest ever made in part thanks to geometric systems and ratios of proportions.

Walking Out from Cubism

In this section we see a shift Allen goes into detail explaining how art in the 60s and 70s shifted from cubism to minimalists  and later expanded on by Americans on which further bodies can be created by using specific and concise rules.

Thick 2D

The fourth section begins with a very interesting point which is that while grids are fields,  field arent always grids. Fields have the possibility of transforming how we think of two big architectural elements. Figure and ground are not restricted to being an object against a stable field. An object can pop out from a transforming field or maybe go in and out of it. Possibilities are much more open than we usually think of.

Flocks, Schools, Swarms, Crowds

Flocks have rules and things that dictate the way they move which depend on the impact of the effects and elements that would be considered local, which makes it a field condition. Flocks also contain patterns and continuous moves which end up producing similar flows and shapes as well as rhythms which make everything much more familiar and connected. Crowds on the other hand, rely on move according to four deciding factors or goals. These goals are to grow, to retain density, have a direction, and maintain equality. Crowds also differ from flocks because of the variety of speeds they move in.