Surface into Form

 

Surface into Form is an exhibit by Nancy Yen-wen Cheng, Associate Professor of Architecture at the University of Oregon’s College of Design. The exhibit is the product of her ongoing exploration about how designers think and interact with the means at their disposal, most significantly the increasingly powerful digital tools that are an indispensable part of architectural practice today. Additionally, Nancy's research has explored the aesthetic potential of parametrically generated forms, specifically how such forms interact with light to shape spatial experiences. Surface into Form will occur at the Portland office of PLACE, part of that firm’s ongoing series of installations open to the public (much in the spirit of a succession of curated art displays). 

Here is a synopsis of the display: 

How much visual expression can come from a single sheet of material? Exhibit pieces explore how surfaces can be manipulated to bounce light in interesting ways. They show how simple cuts and folds can create complex patterns of flaps or pockets to catch light. For example, a family of geometric patterns incorporate self-clasping hooks designed to pull flexible sheets into saddle forms that juxtapose convex and concave edges. Recent efforts with draped and stretched fabric are motivated by the idea of shaping form and space with minimal means. 

The fabric pieces have been created with Marziah Rajabzadeh and Mohsen Marizad of ZAAD Studio, who excel in conceptual design and digital visualization. Methods to shape light with folded surfaces were developed through teaching in Australia, Germany, China and the U.S. Exhibit support has come from PLACE, Francisco Toledo, Bonnie Jean Dominguez, Tom Coates, and SuperfabPDX. 

What:  Surface into Form, by Nancy Yen-wen Cheng 

When:  June 21 – July 28, 2017  Open M-F 11-5

Where:  PLACE, 735 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 – phone (503) 334-2080 

 

In addition to her exhibit, Nancy invites everyone to three FREE events, also occurring at PLACE: 

OPENING RECEPTION
Wed June 21, 6:00-9:00pm with 7:00pm talk by Nancy Cheng 

• Learn about the origins of the sculptural studies, digital design and fabrication, and related research into airflow around architectural shading screens. https://www.facebook.com/events/1504274479592801 

Workshop: Shaping Light with Folded Surfaces
Saturday, July 8, 12:00-3:00pm

• Experiment with light and shadow effects by manipulating surfaces and material properties.  Learn how curved cuts, folds and clasps can sculpt sheet materials to produce aesthetic forms.  Examine how lighting can transform appearances when capturing photos of work in progress. 

Workshop: Shaping Space with Fabric
Saturday, July 29, 12:00-3:00pm

• What is the most interesting space that can be sculpted with the least material?  Learn about minimal structures through manipulating fabric.  The group will create temporary walls and tent-like enclosures by using bodies, rods and hoops to tension sheet materials.