Analysis of the limits of representation of architectural photographic images in periodicals


Thesis Type: Postgraduate

Institution Of The Thesis: Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi, Faculty of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Turkey

Approval Date: 2007

Student: NAZLI BAKHT

Supervisor: CELAL ABDİ GÜZER

Abstract:

This study aims to analyze the limits of representation of architectural photographic images in periodicals within architectural media that shape today’s architectural production. This aim is accomplished in three sections; “examining the power of image in architecture”; “examining architectural media” and “examining the periodicals’ attitudes towards using architectural photography”. A case study is done to uncover the relationship between the photograph and the medium that it takes place on and determine the continuities and discontinuities between the architecture and visual language that is used to ‘represent’ it. Zaha Hadid is selected as she is one of the leading figures in contemporary architectural culture and her projects are widely published in media. The exemplary periodicals from different cultural domains are selected according to their positions in architectural media. Selected examples are thought to be the representative for each domain. The contextual properties of each domain are outlined and compared through a set of variables. These variables appear to form the ground for the identification of the limits of architectural media within contemporary architectural production. Finally, the case study aims to understand the periodicals’ attitudes towards using photographic imagery and finally compare architect’s intentions and design considerations about his projects and the way it is represented in selected periodicals.