We have begun our first major-oriented module here at the IFC. Although we aim for students to work in smaller groups according to their intended field specialty, we also aim to continue to cohesion amongst the various studios. To that end, this first elective module is themed as “Organic”, with each discipline interpreting the theme in ways applicable to their field. This year, we have a total of 6 studios: Fine Art, Spatial Design, Fashion Design, Moving Image and Photography, Graphic Design and 3D Design.
 
Here we’ll take a peak into the Spatial Design studio, led by Lecturer Ivan Joel. Students began this module by reading Chinese Daoist philosopher Zhuangzi’s story “Zhuang Zhou Dreams of Being a Butterfly” (Found in ‘The Equality of Things’) and designing architecture for butterflies! 
Transformation was a theme found again and again in the students’ work. Below is a small passage taken from Zhuangzi’s story:
Once upon a time, I, Chuang Chou, dreamt I was a butterfly, fluttering hither and thither, to all intents and purposes a butterfly. I was conscious only of my happiness as a butterfly, unaware that I was Chou. Soon I awaked, and there I was, veritably myself again. Now I do not know whether I was then a man dreaming I was a butterfly, or whether I am now a butterfly, dreaming I am a man. Between a man and a butterfly there is necessarily a distinction. The transition is called the transformation of material things.
 
(Translation by Lin Yutang)
Students gained the understanding of the differences between organic-in-form and organic-in-material and had the opportunity to go on walks to see and record local architecture: CAFA is located within walking distance to a Zaha Hadid building, Wangjing SOHO. 
Students’ to-scale designed spaces for butterflies were later adapted to fit human use and developed through further models and drawings. Students referenced local architecture in addition to the organic shapes of Gaudi’s work in Spain. Their expansions utilized their newly learned concepts of modularity and aggregation. Take a look through our gallery above to see our spatial design students at work and the models they designed for both insect and human use. 

Mary A. Johnson 
 
Images by Mary A. Johnson