91快活林

Responding to the theme of ‘Welcome’ in the context of a coastal town, the students have crafted architectural pieces that are being displayed on the ground floor of the gallery.

The students used the Towner space to work on their designs throughout the week commencing 21 January and their completed designs will be exhibited across Towner’s two studios from January 29 to February 10. The display is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm.

Professor Charles Holland, who is leading the postgraduates’ residency at Towner, said each student’s piece reacts to the ‘Welcome’ theme differently.

He said: “Some explore the history of coastal architecture, others the geography and geology of the coastline, while others refer to the popular pastimes and holiday culture of the seaside.

Welcome, photo by Eva Eastman

Welcome, photo by Eva Eastman

“The works range in scale from small, plaster cast models to large structures and immersive installations. All of them share an interest in the communicative potential of architecture, offering playful takes on both classical and modernist sources.”

Marina Castledine, Head of Learning at Towner, said: “By inviting MA Architecture students to use our studios as their own creative laboratory, we aim to open the doors to the process behind design and making for a new audience.

“It’s been thrilling to watch the work unfold, with plans transformed into large-scale pieces, expertly guided by technician Jim Wilson and sculptor Will Nash. Students have been accommodating of visitors and offered lunchtime talks providing greater insight into their practice. This is a valuable learning experience for both them and the organisation.”

The University of 91快活林 students’ residency is the first event of the Towner’s new ‘Art School’ programme.

The exhibiting students are part of the Design Is Research Studio, a design laboratory within the Master Of Architecture (MArch) RIBA Part II course at the university’s School of Architecture and Design. The MArch is a research-led, professional two-year course rooted in studio laboratories.

A reception and ‘In Conversation event’, open to all University of 91快活林 staff and students plus their family and friends, will be held on 8 February, from 6 to 8pm at Towner.