FMP: Week Two

Primary Photograph: Exterior of National Portrait Gallery.

Alongside continuing my research I decided to visit the National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery,both located in Convent Garden as it enabled me to see notable examples of existing  architecture in London, that could serve as inspiration to my own work.

Primary Photograph: Exterior of National Art Gallery.

Seeing the building in the flesh provided me with access to new concepts and enabled me to expand my understanding of the structure. Overall, I found this to be useful as my aim is to create similar designs and models to the highest standard possible, that are just as functional and aesthetically pleasing to the visitors. Although the designs of the buildings were both relatively antique/historic from the 18th/19th century (neoclassical and renaissance revival architecture) it remains to hold cultural heritage today and could offer me with an understanding of the key differences between modern and historic details in architecture. I believe that looking back at history can lead to new inventions that are different and break away from historical norms.


The National Art Gallery itself was originally designed by the English architect William Wilkins between 1832-1838.It was later expanded by American architects Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown influenced by the international style (post-modernism). Analysing the building it is clear that the façade and pillars of the museum have a distinctive style and were inspired by classical architecture. The exhibitions and art work weren't significantly relevant to my project, however the details of the exterior and interior of the building were my main focuses.

Best of Both Worlds :Book

Later I decided to research the role and importance of museums in a digital age, by doing this I could understand if museums are even necessary in the 20th century and how to adjust my design to fit our era. A book that supported my research was 'Best of Both Worlds- By G Wayne Cough' which outlines how digital evolution could change existing  organizations such as museums.  The main thing I learnt from this was that adding interactive components such as digital images to my museum could allow it to be more engaging for my target audience. These were just initial ideas and I now feel that I have a better understanding on how to attract people to art museums and therefore educate them through art.








WWW: This has been an essential week to gain an understanding of existing art museums and ways that I could design mine differently and reject traditional architecture, to create something that is unique and modern.

EBI: To improve my work I could have used different methods to collect my research such as videos ,as this would not only enhance my learning experience but could potentially enable me to deeper my understanding in relation to my project.

CRIT: The crit required me to explore the work carried out in the previous week in front of my peers and tutor. From this discussion it was highlighted that I should consider communicating directly with my chosen target audience to gain an understanding of what needs and expectations I must consider and meet when designing my outcome.