Introduction into ARCH1101

1. Hand of Agony

This ceramic hand was one of my first few pieces of art that I kept, which encapsulated multitudes of concepts and ideas. Making this piece changed how I viewed or constructed art as a whole. I called this piece "Hand of Agony" which portrays a crippling grasp of the hand, plunged with a knife through it. Initially it was to be just the hand, but accidentally was altered to have a knife piercing through the palm. The portrayal of the knife provided a sharper and intensified meaning of physically and/or mentally being stabbed rather. The addition of such element emphasises the emotion, raising ideas to how the person was hurt or why did they suffer the way they did. Upon reflecting on this piece, it helped me realise that art never truly has one solitary meaning, but give birth to multiple perspectives and themes.

Photo: Gagnon, Bernard, "The Sagrada Familia viewed from Casa Milià, Sagrada Familia, Wikipedia, 20 September 2009 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sagrada_Fam%C3%ADlia

2. Sagrada Familia

To this day, such an exquisite cathedral is yet to be completed since its commencement of construction on the 19th of March 1882. The structure stands as a monument of the Christian faith, as it is one of the biggest cathedrals, especially for the Roman Catholics. However, the Gothic temple provides universal ideas and is recognised internationally of all people of different faiths, backgrounds and personalities. Symbolic for love and peace, its current construction represents how modern society is still building up harmony and unity within the world. Although it is not completed, it stands as a recognised structure earning a spot on UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sagrada Familia represents how architecture, in all stages, brings forth conceptual ideas and projects timeless ideas internationally.

3. Cathedral Cove (Te Whanganui-A-Hei)

One memory I'll never forget is the transition from a small hidden bay beside the rock gateway into the breathtaking cove. As magical as it sounds, the site was truly worth the 45 minute walk. Recognising its appearance in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, it seemed as we were transported into a new world/realm entirely, much like in the movie. The smooth sand blanketed our feet whilst the trees upon the cliff face danced with the calming winds. The gentle waves invited visitors to swim and bathe in beauty and awe of the cove. This has been called home for thousands of years by the Maori people, claimed by Hei. Although some of the rocks have been engraved by the names of modern tourists and country of origin, it reflects how its serenity calls travellers across the world to experience its beauty and wonder. Cathedral cove is a reminder that even in world full of skyscrapers and towering office buildings, there is a small place hidden away from city noise which encapsulates beauty and serenity.