Footprints in Sand | Summer 2021
Columbia GSAPP
Preface
This project aims to uncover, expose and bring into the light the many relationships, agendas, power and influence large institutions have on our everyday lives, affecting thousands. It proposes a rebellion against the atrocities, autocracies, administrative autonomies and absurdities that are subjected to people by these institutions. Taking up educational institutions as the main subject, it forms a narrative on how architecture, its elements, making and demolition can create noise and act as a form of rebellion.
As you read further, realize that you yourself are a rebel. You wouldn’t stumble upon this otherwise. Which means that you too desire to stand up against such dictatorial administrative practices. As you proceed, you will find yourself taking up the role of this rebel, and will find yourself on the grounds of the highly influential architecture school, CEPT University, situated in India. As they celebrate their 60th anniversary, you will take part in a special rebellion. Read on, to find out!
Tools: Python, Mathematica, Procreate, Rhino 3D, Adobe Creative Suite, Keynote, Cargo, Figma
They say footprints in sand fade away,
but all the storm left us with was dust.
They said that if we fought, we’d see a better day,
But they only saw us worthy of corn and husk.
They say footprints in sand fade away,
But the sand turned to glass, stabbing us in the back.
With scars penetrating through cultures so deep,
It’s effects were tough to track.
Some embraced these scars with open arms,
Some drew inspiration from the enemy,
Some resented them, the reminder of tough times,
Some hid them, out of sight where no one could see.
If you’re reading this, the time has come. A great loudreading is in the making, and you, my friend, YOU have noticed!
On that note, we welcome you to join us in this bringing together this great event.
We hope to see you on the other side.
Navigating Through
Use the tools you received along with the envelope.
If you truly are a loudreader, we believe you’ll have what it takes to figure it out.
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01 _ Nursed
Isn’t it just lovely to abandon everything your country stands for - its climate, community, society, identity, culture and art?
And no, we most defnitely aren’t talking about the 60’s, which were ironically more independent times of education, thought and progress.
What’s funnier is that the university has crossed milestones with its exceptional pedagogy and contribution to the urban fabric of the country, but hey! That’s nothing compared to an ‘ivy league’ now, is it?
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02 _ Smitten
One of the oldest and most successful architecture schools, a part of the national archives, advisors for urban planning, METRO rail development, New capital city planning, waterfronts, housing policies and schemes, national advisor to airports, In charge of regional, state and (in some cases) national Heritage and Conservation, and for what?
To watch and do nothing, while ‘strange white men’ who know absolutely nothing about these historic totems come and tear them down. Ah, just like old times!
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03 _ Cursed
A campus without doors? Doshi might’ve achieved that but the administration sure was quick to build up massive walls, insulated by bureaucratic policies and layers of manipulation. You’d think that those screams and cries for help would’ve remained engraved in stone and brick, but of course not!
Just like the heritage and identity, these cries were wiped out with one big blow, leaving nothing but an empty oasis of memories. Oh but don’t worry! At least this one’s all fancy looking and has Air Conditioning!
