Memory is Tactile
Though visualization plays its part, experiencing space is truly a tactile journey. Kenneth Frampton elaborates on this concept in his article Towards a Critical Regionalism: Six Points for an Architecture of Resistance. The last point compares the visual versus the tactile. Frampton states that "the tactile is an important dimension in the perception of built form." To explain, the manipulation of certain spatial elements such as light and shadow, or hot and cold, effects the overall understanding and impact of any architectural space. Frampton goes on to describe how depending solely on visuals in order to interpret one's environment is more ineffective than anything. By doing so, the individual ignores all other senses that may add depth to the atmosphere they encounter.
My theory is that when it comes to memory, it depends primarily on one's overall experience of the spaces the memories take place in. Since Frampton emphasizes the tactile cornerstone of experience, it can be argued that memory is actually a tactile conversance. As an anecdote, some of my fondest childhood memories hardly revolve around what I saw or what I did. Rather, they depict what I could smell, taste, or feel. These memories are far more vivid to reflect upon compared to those of which are mostly visual.
Frampton concludes how critical regionalism has the potential to balance our typical emphasis on visualization with the tactile range of our everyday perceptions. Taking the time to perform an in-depth analysis of surrounding context is crucial in finding ways to harmonize a space with its site and create memories that will truly resonate with us all.
I've always loved this way of thinking about architecture. Peter Zumthor's lecture, "Atmospheres," talks about this a great deal, mentioning the importance of light, material, and temperature. Buildings are so much more than the visual; they each hold on to the memories of each person that has visited!
ReplyDeleteI like your description and I want to add that memory is also emplaced. Frances Yates talked about classical orators established connections among locations, emotions, and images to help remember details of their speech before the invention of printed pages. It resonances well with your post.
ReplyDeleteCameron - This comparison struck a cord with me, because before reading this I had a pretty in depth conversation about my internal fear of loosing my eyesight. I feel like I would miss so much of the world if I went blind and it is terrifying. However, reading your views of how sight can be misleading by overshadowing the other senses is an interesting take that I am a little scared to think about. Maybe we do depend on sight too much, or visuals as you put it, but I don't know if I am particularly ready to admit it.
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