Essay:

My ‘created space’ precisely is oriented to demonstrate the theme revolving around a “place of memory and healing after a catastrophe”. As Syrian, my heart aches every day as I witness what is happening to my people who have been suffering for 5 long years without their most basic human rights. I learned, during this time, that what is bad for my heart is good for my art, as I have been inspired to make the world a better space through a creative lens.

The space is called “Syria’s Memory Lane Museum” which was heavily inspired by the concept of “Chinatown” as the aim of this project is to make the space a very Syrian ethnic enclave. This space is a museum placed in a park (indoor space in a public space) and consists of four squared rooms (indoor space) that each explore different themes; food, art, music and traditional furniture. They are placed in a squared manner and are all connected by transparent tunnels surrounding a traditional Syrian courtyard in the center. The tunnels are purposely designed to be transparent so that my audience can be at one with nature when walking to the next room. Trees, sun, wind and other elements of nature are very soothing to the mind. This allows the audience to be in a relaxed state of mind throughout this experience. Moreover, the “undesirables” in this project are the leftover litter (food) left behind in the park by the customers.

This museum is mainly targeted towards Syrian citizens however is opened to the public. The concept of “Syrian Memory Lane” is to explore Syrian traditions through different elements that form Syria. The purpose for Syrians is so that they can reminiscent and feel a touch of home when walking down this memory lane as they feel a sense of comfort. The atmosphere is very comforting and soothing that it should process their healing. For foreigners, this museum will educate them about the different Syrian traditions.

The journey of this museum is significant for the viewers experience. It begins at the food court and ends at the art department:

Food: Syrian cuisine is rich and varied in its ingredients and is linked to the regions of Syria where a specific dish has originated. Syrian food mostly consists of Southern Mediterranean, Greek, and Southwest Asian dishes. Some Syrian dishes also evolved from Turkish and French cooking. The Syrian cuisine includes dishes like:

• Kibbeh b laban
• Hummus
• Wara Aanab

Music: The music of Syria largely originates from the capital, Damascus and the largest city Aleppo. Syria has long been one of the Arab world’s centers for cultural and artistic innovation, especially in the field of classical Arab music. “Syria has also produced several pan-Arab stars, including George Wassuf and Nour Mahana. The city of Aleppo is known for its muwashash, a form of Andalous sung poetry popularized by Sabri Moudallal. Dabkha and other forms of dances are also popular and native to the greater region.”

Furniture: Syrian furniture is very distinctive and instantly identifiable because of the consistency of walnut wood and the traditional Arabic decoration. Till today, the Syrians use the most basic tools and the age old art of Intarsia or inlay of fine mother of pearl.

Art: Syrian’s traditional arts is expressed in dances such as the al-Samah, the Dabkeh in all their variations and the sword dance. There artworks are inspired by islamic patterns which are mostly made out of wood and marble

Courtyard: A very important aspect of this museum is the courtyard in the center. This courtyard was designed to mimic the traditional Syrian courtyard where it is found in nearly every Syrian home. “The courtyard house is one of the most enduring architectural forms, transcending regional, historical and cultural boundaries. Courtyard housing is an architectural device with a long history first appearing in the buildings of Syria and Iraq three millennia ago.”

Furthermore, the courtyard fulfills a deep-rooted need for an open living area. In this courtyard, ‘sitting space’ as well as ‘triangulation’ occurs. Interaction happens amongst strangers while sitting by the fountain due to the Syrian cultural and historical surroundings. Although William Whyte does not include traditional patterns as the key elements in creating a public space, it is considerably a very significant factor as it gives a purpose in terms of conveying a cultural and traditional environment making it an effective public space.

bibliography: 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Syria
http://www.elpalaciodamasceno.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_of_Syria
http://www.muslimheritage.com/article/courtyard-houses-syria

Presentation:

Defining Places Final presentation.compressed-16dtmvv

Final Images