“The true function of architecture is to oppose the Vitruvian Triad of commodity, firmness, and delight is a radical proposition.  Yet, its radicality lies precisely in relation to an outmoded conception of architecture.  Instead, new programs and forms of representation -present since development of cubism at the beginning of the twentieth century- demand new notions of space and architecture.” 

                      -Luis Carranza-

    Avant-garde cinema describes a range of filmmaking styles that experiment with abstract techniques placing the viewer in a more active relationship with the film.  This abstract style is also seen in the cubist work of Juan Gris.  Further abstracting Gris’ painting, a dramatic perspective was created similar to the avant-garde filming type.  This exaggerated perspective and exploratory framing style dictated the site to be personally chosen for a film archive on Harvard’s campus.  Further exploration of the selected narrow site with the use of a drodel, revealed a location with intriguing views outward, well used circulation paths and a visual connection to the near-by Carpenter Center.  The views were abstracted with the use of a site collage depicting the historic southern edge with more order than the more modern, chaotic northern side.

    The film archive exaggerates all views creating forced perspectives framed by the intersecting program pieces.  A panoramic view of the south however lies in juxtaposition to the fragmented views of the north, serving as a constant reminder of the historic campus.  Nevertheless, the film archive being the main programmatic fragment stands above the existing circulation paths supporting all other pieces structurally while allowing discrete access to the projection booths.

    “Architecture which resists man, which is an obstacle in his path, affirms itself by the obviousness of its refusal, by its unattractive but repulsive aspect... True architecture is the being of construction opposed to the being of man.  True architecture has weakened over the past several centuries, becoming comfortable, degrading itself into ease.”

                    -Paul Virilio- Potential Architecture