This week I updated my leading forms to be pentagonal. In my physical modeling I gave alternate strategies of capture via scored pieces. Some of these ranged from traditional looking ornamental tile, with symmetrical dimensions. Another strategy I explored was giving large and small form holes akin to that of a sponge. This poses a question as to what is the purpose of a building facade being a sponge? Can this be to capture water and nutrients in wetter environments? Is it just sun deflection? So the idea of collecting nutrients and letting microbial life thrive on tile made me think of aquatic application. I did research on locations such as great barrier reef to read about the mixed reception artificial coral gets from experts. However, I do feel like creating an underwater sculpture could be a proper use of the material. A sponge-like piece may be heavier and more dense but there’s also possibilities of thinner more open modules which may invite the growth of longer plant life.

Sponge-like ceramic pieces developed by students at Cornell.