MSA Statement

The diverse areas covered by MSA’s program stand out to me. From urbanism to sustainability, I believe in-depth understanding of all aspects relevant to architecture is vital for building more effectively and responsibly. I value hands-on learning, so I was immediately drawn to MSA’s balance between theory and practice - particularly the design studio and workshop sessions incorporated in the curriculum. Furthermore, I value a supportive and collaborative environment for creative development and growth, and the MSSA stood out as an opportunity to collaborate with others at MSA beyond the classroom. Additionally, the fact that the program is a collaboration between two top institutions would enable unique academic pursuits with the vast resources available - something I definitely look forward to. 

During COVID, I found an escape with the “disCONNECT HK” modern art exhibition, centred around people’s journeys through quarantine. Despite the exhibition spanning three separate levels with works from very different artists, it was connected through a strong immersive experience, which felt like walking through a regular house on a psychedelic trip. The most memorable installation was the work of Herakut, a German duo combining traditional and modern artistic techniques, where a room was filled with paintings of children-animal hybrids on large pieces of cardboard - one of which stood 10 feet tall. The room had paint all over, which I learnt was actually created by the curator’s children, representing a space in which children are confined during quarantine. The installation discusses how their worlds have been confined to their homes, yet their imaginative capacities have extended beyond boundaries, prompting them to imagine these painted characters “playing” with them in their rooms. The nature, layout and immersive style of this collection of global works made this exhibition a perfect escape.

My favourite building is the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) in Seattle by Frank Gehry. Its exterior surface is finished with interesting hues and different fluorescent shades which change throughout the day according to how much sunlight there is. The awe-inspiring curved exterior emulates the form and fluidity of music - paying tribute to some of the music-centred exhibits within.

I would love to experience the Ibaraki Kasugaoka Church (or, the Church of the Light) in Japan in-person. I am fascinated by the use of light as an architectural element, with this building as the perfect example. Photos alone do not do the Church justice, for the magnificence of light and shadows can only truly be experienced within the space. I imagine the juxtaposition of stone walls and warm natural light would trigger not just my visual, but other senses as well, as the contrast between light and dark, cold and warm, man-made and natural permeate the Church’s space.