I've always been fascinated by the links between architecture & the other Arts disciplines, but there is one in particular that captures my interest & imagination above all the others.
Aerial & acrobatic arts is still a relatively new member to the UK arts scene however, this has not hindered its impact & ability to astound.
For me, it links back to the core principles of architecture. It is an exploration of structure, form & movement, set within a predefined context (be this a piece of equipment or even another human being).
The human structure has always fascinated me & in this realm it is explored & pushed to its very limits in the most truly inspiring of ways.
(Cirque du Soliel: image from leadingevents.com)
This interest began some 5 years ago for me, when I began learning Aerial myself. Experiencing first hand this relationship between form & the manipulation of a relatively 2D object into 3D, it immediately appealed to the architect in me. Just like in any design project you have your site/context (in my case my rope) & you have to interact & create a structure around it, placing one structure within another & adapting them into a feasible & aesthetic form. And just like architecture, it is critical to understand the limits of your materials & context.
Without listing every interpretation of this very apparent link, the most interesting way to explore this is to experience it. Whether you see an aerial or acro balance performance, take a class or even simy do a "Cirque du Soliel" google search, you will almost certainly see the fundamentals of architecture in this fascinating art form. While many will tell you it is a blend of art, circus & dance for me this is most definitely Architecture 101.
Itvstudios.com & Smashingreader.com)
