Proposal for a Post Cell (2012)
MDF, pine, steel
As regenerative proposals have come and gone for the empty space of the former maze prison grounds, its few remaining buildings have lain inert. Much of their contents have been stored away, waiting for the day in which objects become artefacts, redefined in the building’s new context as a museum.
There is often a certain amount of conflict in the treatment of remaining space. The desire to destroy and move away from negative connotations has been impeded by the knowledge of future capital as a place of touristic/historic significance. Previously a source of disputation, politicians are now praising this planned museum as a “mecca for tourists”. Yet until this spatial redefinition takes place, the building remains a closely monitored and isolated space.
“Proposal for a post cell” is based upon these acts of preservation. Created using the dimensions of a former cell, this cladding profiles the cavity of the space. As a coating that can cover the walls and the furniture, it is a potential barrier. This portable skin is an abstract of the space’s “real” components, making it semi-available for public interaction.
There is often a certain amount of conflict in the treatment of remaining space. The desire to destroy and move away from negative connotations has been impeded by the knowledge of future capital as a place of touristic/historic significance. Previously a source of disputation, politicians are now praising this planned museum as a “mecca for tourists”. Yet until this spatial redefinition takes place, the building remains a closely monitored and isolated space.
“Proposal for a post cell” is based upon these acts of preservation. Created using the dimensions of a former cell, this cladding profiles the cavity of the space. As a coating that can cover the walls and the furniture, it is a potential barrier. This portable skin is an abstract of the space’s “real” components, making it semi-available for public interaction.
