Design and Architecture Senior High School
Miami, FL
Score: 6

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Student Commentary:
What is the central idea of your concentration?
The central idea of my concentration is the exploration of how and why humans feel the need to divide space and the spaces they create. I wanted to convey this literally with architectural models displaying the artificial divisions that humans innately create as well as abstractly through more conceptual models.  Furthermore, I was also concerned with the human manipulation of the environment and how humans try to capture a little piece of the world for themselves.

How does the work in your concentration demonstrate the exploration of your idea? You may refer to specific slides as examples.
Through various pieces I explored different ways that humans can divide space. For example in my model of a garden house, space is intertwined with nature but still contained while my model of a cube house, is strictly contained and is self-sustaining. The experience of an individual is dictated by their space and each space dictates a different experience. In my abstract models I explored the idea of wrapping space with bands of wood that hold the space yet still let the viewer see through.

Rationale for Score:
This portfolio exhibits an in-depth exploration of space that ranges from architectural models to abstract sculptures. The works demonstrate risk-taking and development of visual language to articulate an original concept. The student displays an investigation of the use of positive and negative space to engage the viewer. Easily accessible materials are used to create sophisticated designs. Overall, the work is excellent and executed masterfully.

* Important Note:
The numbers of the slides run from top left to bottom right.

1. 4” x 4” x 4” chipboard
2. 4” x 4” x 4” chipboard
3. 4” x 4” x 4” chipboard and stick
4. 4” x 4” x 4” chipboard and stick
5. 2’ x 16” x 1’ chipboard and stick
6. 2’ x 16” x 1’ chipboard and wood
7. 2’ x 16” x 1’ chipboard and wood
8. 2’ x 16” x 1’ chipboard and wood
9. 3’ x 2’ x 1’ chipboard and stick
10. 3’ x 2’ x 1’ chipboard and stick
11. 1’ x 8” x 8” chipboard and stick
12. 1’ x 8” x 8” chipboard and stick