|
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Strength of Substance
By Ritchie Landis Doner Quijano
How people will live will be defined by architecture. Thus to Ed Daang, an architect based in Cagayan de Oro city, “architecture is the discovery of an object into the site”. And for what a particular site is meant or desires, “the ways of life, customs of the people lie concealed in there”.
The architect hints on architecture’s purpose that aside from mere enhancements it can transform a place into what it ought to be. Architecture is a process of becoming and sheltering for a purpose because to Daang, “it is the act of discovering those things and bringing them to the surface”. The elements of “geometry, nature, symbolism and expressionism are mere references to translate into architecture”. I see architecture as a compound filled with complex meanings.
I am beginning to understand that it’s a combination of the natural and man-made where even the intangibles, such as customs and traditions, are infused and reflected in it. “My references are synthesis of objects found in the site, its form, the scale of its ebb and flow are the fluids that shape the pursuit of my direction, this because our visual world is determined by forces of practical nature”, Daang expounds. Like art, design process does not rest since it’s a movement that keeps on pushing. Looking for ways to further and improve, to last and be timeless. Daang have this to say of his work: “My architecture has no strength but it has the essence, body and soul that is deeply rooted in the realms of the vernacular.”
The physical attributes of a building is just the tip of the iceberg, most important is the substance. He counts Frank Gehry and Peter Pran, two great builders, as his influences. Then adds a few names, including the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Francisca Reyes Aquino (folk dancer), and the musicians Lennon and Mcartney, as among those that made an impact on his work and person.
He gives a statement of dedication “I am committed to art in architecture; whether it be influence by sculpture, painting or music, architecture must move, it must grow and, like music, it must have a tune. Architects must create art not by reestablishing the established but by destabilizing the status quo”.
(September 28, 2005 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
check>
|
[return to top]
[home]
[network page]
|
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
OPINION
SPORTS
LIFESTYLE
FEATURE
SUPERBALITA
WEEKEND
|
