Fall 2022

The program begins with the words learn, observe, and create. A film school has all these experiences wrapped into one. Certain programs fit primarily into one of the categories. Overlap of these experiences fall into a new category. The blend of these three experiences together, “learn + observe + create”.

The existing buildings became the anchors for the singular experiences. The program pieces that overlap became connector pieces from building to building. It fragments spaces and connections. It is connected as a network through the building with opportunities for circulation as well, creating a campus feel. A newer building is placed under the bridge to interact with the urban noise. Excluding the addition of two newer buildings under the bridge, the new connects the old together.

The buildings keep their original character. The two new buildings speak to the old but have a spin on it. The older buildings keep their brick facade, just being painted over white. The newer buildings have a “pixelated” facade with a grid. The connector pieces are corrugated glass to mimic how light is dispersed and controlled in film. The windows within the facades have pops of color speaking to the notion that light is essential to film. What is also essential to film is sound. The bridge has a blue backdrop to represent this as well. Lastly, some wall’s facades become a screen for films. Color is only seen in this building and site if it relates to the dynamics of film. Sound, light, a canvas, and imagery are manifested through the use of color. When a film plays on the building’s external “canvases” the building lights up and becomes alive.

The most important aspect of this project is that film is an experience. An actual film is the thing that makes these buildings complete. The site becomes lively and kinetic with the ever changing films being shown on the facades of these buildings. It creates opportunities for film festivals, student and community engagement, and a large screen outdoors for students to showcase their talents.

Photography by Amy Li. Site model outside the “cut” was constructed by my entire class.