Studio 28
Bits & Bots
Loren Adams and David Fedyk
Studio Description
The aim of this studio is to create an architecture from a sequence of strategically-assembled fragments experienced at four scales – edge, surface, volume, terrain.
During the first half of semester, students will produce a series of gestural drawing fragments, using 5-digit hands and 6-axis industrial robots. Through emulation, exaggeration, and interpretation of anthropomorphic gestures using robotic technology, students will be prompted to consider how a sequence of strategic marks made by human or machine might inform an unexpected, generative architectural language.
Using drawings and physical models, students will then be asked to design a public library on the site of the Royal Society of Victoria in the northeast corner of Melbourne’s CBD.
Studio Outcomes
This studio aims to introduce students to advanced design and fabrication methodologies using multi-axis programmable robots and traditional workshop machinery. Classes have been structured to make use of the equipment and facilities in the MSD Robotics Lab and Machine Workshop, with the emphasis of the studio heavily weighted on drawing and model-making.
While helpful, students are not required to have existing programming, digital modelling, or fabrication experience. It is expected, however, that all students approach the brief with an enthusiasm for the hands-on and a willingness to commit to learning new technical skills.
Studio Leaders
Loren Adams is the Coordinator of the new MSD Robotics Lab. She has a background in architecture, with an undergraduate degree from Curtin University and a Masters degree from RMIT.
Loren recently relocated to Melbourne after 3 years living and working in Los Angeles, during which time she assisted in the design development, documentation, and fabrication of numerous complex, high-spec public and fine art projects.
She specialises in digital fabrication, with particular emphasis on rationalising early schematic designs into geometry suitable for fabrication, shipping, and installation.
David Fedyk is the Coordinator of the Machine Workshop at the MSD FabLab. After graduating with an architecture degree he spent 8 years as a model-maker, fabricator, and designer. He helped grow the Model Shop, and develop it into a fabrication space capable of producing high end models up to full-scale installations. He enjoys combining digital fabrication with traditional techniques, and taking a multi-disciplinary approach to the making process.
www.davidfedyk.com
Reading & Reference
Gilbreth Motion Studies, Étienne-Jules Marey, Mike Mandel, Stelarc, Loie Fuller, Inspector Gadget, Donna Haraway, Elizabeth Grosz, Cameron Robbins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-qm2s8KZo8&feature=youtu.be
ST1/28 Monday 9AM-12, MSD Room 226
ST2/28 Thursday 9AM-12, MSD Room G23
In addition to scheduled class times, students must be available to work within the MSD Fablab facilities most weekday afternoons during Open Access (1-5PM)