Mobile Space Shortlist

There are four shortlisted proposals, below is the summary statements of each project. Public feedback can be send to Art at the Centre to be received before the 22nd April 2010 (see contact page for more details).

ArtBook – Aberrant Architecture

ArtBook is an art space that uses old and new forms of communication to deliver mobile art happenings to culturally disconnected communities. Firstly, community members download the ArtBook app onto their smart phones, laptops or home computers, to be instantly connected to a social network of people similarly interested in creative activity and the regeneration of their local area. Users can peruse the online events menu for the Artbook vehicle, view exhibition times, pre-book workshops and send electronic invites for performances to friends, colleagues and other ArtBook users in the area.

Secondly, the mobile ArtBook vehicle arrives in local communities at the advertised times, creating a self-contained platform for public art commissions. The design for the ArtBook vehicle takes advantage of the mechanisms of airport catering vehicles so that the mobile art showroom can occupy the smallest of roadside or urban plots. The internal showroom is raised to the first storey, transforming the ground floor into a readymade outside area that can be used for ‘on street’ workshops and events as well as a café, physically reconnecting communities through a shared appreciation for art.

Mobile Space- Simon Barker

Buildings that move are not exceptional on the Isle of Sheppey.

This proposal is for the recycling of a used shipping container: a familiar site on Sheppey, whether bringing consumer goods into the country at Sheerness or adapted in an adhoc way to make cheap space. Shipping containers are ubiquitous they are both iconic and invisible. Shipping containers are so familiar and available that their reuse has become almost a folk-technology. The proposed adaptation could be made locally with local labour and materials. The welding and carpentry skills required are found everywhere; especially in an area with maritime connections and traditions.

The rugged exterior of the container will contrast with the carefully fitted plywood lining and new openings, which will bring light, a sense of space and a connection between the outside into the interior. This will not compromise its portability; the integrity of the structure will remain. Transport will be by crane lorry: again a familiar, available and inexpensive technology. The container’s proximity to the ground will make it easily accessible. It is envisaged that the space created would be simple and flexible; with potential for use as a gallery, meeting space, office or studio; and with only very simple fitted benches and concealed hinged tables. The final detail and form of the adaptations will be designed in collaboration with the commissioners and users of the space. The robust construction of the container will give it a long service life if necessary; and resistance to vandalism. There is potential for it to be semi permanently stationed if required.The ad hoc adaptation of the everyday to make something rich and enjoyable at low cost is an appropriate reflection of the spirit of self-help and ingenuity that is to be found throughout the Isle of Sheppey.

Polycarbonate Mobile Art Space - Thierry Bidet

Combining the ancestral and well grounded construction type of the tent with cutting edge materials and technology, this nomadic space intends to reconcile our deeply rooted aspirations and traditions with the modern era we live in. Two wall panels are used as very large tables for celebrations and Art workshops. Temporary or permanent artworks cut into colour films can be applied directly onto the panels. At each step of the tour, completed panels are then included to the Mobile Art Space. The Mobile Space has a sheer presence in the evening and by night when it is illuminated from the inside and the Art works situated inside are revealed. The Mobile Space acts as a magnet around which activities and informal gatherings and discussions take place. In the darkest days,  polycarbonate allows light in, bringing a sense of well-being and saving energy.

The triangular structure is naturally braced, while insulating multi-cell polycarbonate is used here for its strength and structural qualities and not just for its translucency, in combination with other elements working in tension, eliminating metal frames and reducing the weight. Panels are light and safe to transport and assemble using a click-on system and pulling-lifting techniques. The full opening of one or both extremities allows an effective cross-ventilation in the summer and invites to come in, while the remaining walls strongly direct the views towards the landscape when you are inside.

Mobile Art Space - Karen Henderson

The proposal is for a mobile art space built on a flat bed trailer.  Three beach huts will form a backdrop along one side and appear to be either falling over, or in the process of being erected.  The theatricality of the design references floats used in parades and the potential for a spectacle to generate an audience is central to this proposal.  Beach huts have become valuable real estate in recent times but originally stood for a more classless, communal space in post war seaside communities. They are a familiar sight throughout Kent though less common in Swale and the design is intended to provoke discussion about how regeneration can re-visualize the built environment and revitalize the everyday and overlooked. 

In contrast, the other side of the art space will comprise a flat wall with folding glass doors down one end which will open into a large space which can be used for workshops and events.  The design of a space for temporary use and hosting, but not permanent habitation will draw on the low tech improvisation and DIY of the beach hut, which was originally a response to the austerity of the post war economic situation, providing basic functions with whatever was available.  This approach will generate a recognisable focal point for discussion and use by local communities.