An exploration of spatial tension in Bristol's alleyways
Within Bristol I was searching for spaces with similar spatial conditions and subsequently tension the space found in the film. I established a set of three processes to use to investigate the identified spaces within Bristol. Through these processes a distance was established between me and the space adopting a more analytical understanding of the space gradually extracting and reconstructing its meaning for me which has similarities to the way we structured the film.
Spatial Tension is a heightened relationship between two or more objects/states etc. In this case it is the dialogue and relationship between inhabitant and space. All space has some degree of tension but the strength of the tension can vary significantly. The following factors influence the extent to which a space has tension:
Occupancy - The fewer the number of occupants the more intense the tension is between oneself and the space
Embedded Memories - The higher the number of triggers in the environment the higher the degree of tension because the connection between inhabitant and the space is made stronger connected via the gap space.
Transition - The density of the transitions is related to the trigger but also gives a constant awareness of the space and little time to get used to a certain spatial condition.
Contrast - The contrast between being in the space and being outside of the space has a large impact as it differentiates the space from its surroundings and draws the attention of the occupant to the change of condition.
Layering - The density and richness of the space has a very significant impact on the degree of dialogue between occupant and space because the more layers of triggers there are the more the occupant engages with the space
Fragility of the space - The dialogue between the space and occupant can be easily disrupted or altered by sudden and certain changes within the space.