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Speculative Ideation; Drawing as Explorative Medium in Architecture

Credits: 6
Teacher: Carsten Oeding Loly

Content
Speculative Ideation is a practical course that revolves around drawing as it´s medium for exploration. However, defined as a loose and open-ended medium, this also allows for students to work at the fringes of the field of drawing, be it sculptural, digital or as installation. In the course students are asked to define a particular subject or topic to pursue and explore. Either connected to ongoing or previous studio work, or to a subject of personal interest, it is vital that the topic relates to the particular ´wants`and ´needs` of the participating student. Thus, exploration and the developing of approaches for personal meaning making and visual articulation on the go are encouraged.

Believing that drawing is thinking and acting in one, facture holds an important place in the process of ideation. Paraphrasing American sociologist Richard Sennett, practice is informed by the rhythm between problem solving and problem finding. In this process speculation and uncertainty (South African artist William Kentridge speaks warmly about the necessity of uncertainty) are deemed as essential factors in the students´ explorations.

Activities
In the initial phase, lectures (talks) are accompanied by exercises that deal with basis issues, such as materiality, gesture, composition, representation and ambiguity. Gradually this phase is subsequently transformed into the course´s main element; the individual studies.

Along with the practical work, students are asked – in a visual form (diagram) or in a written form – to define the intentions and expectations for their work to come. This work serves to clarify guidelines and the revision of these during the course up to the final hand-in and presentation, thus gradually becomes a reflection over how things went along the way. 

Accompanying feedback in peer reviews are critical to the development of both the “intentions/reflections” and the practical work up to the final hand-in and presentation. In the final presentation, which is often connected to an exhibition at AHO´s premises, students join in couples of two to give critical feedback and conjure important discussions along with the external sensor. 

Outcomes
Enhanced awareness of hand drawing´s potential as a personal medium for speculation and ideation in architecture. 
Enhanced visual articulation in ideation, process and conclusion of the individual study.
Enhanced practical skills connected to the tools and materials applied in the practical work.