Man"OR": Sentinels of Wymering

In the heart of history, Wymering Manor stands, a symphony of architectural brilliance now cloaked in the gentle decay of time. I propose not merely a revival but an homage to the antiquity encapsulated within its dilapidated walls. The essence of Wymering lies not just in its physical structure but in the whispers of centuries embedded in its every nook and cranny.

The Wymering Manor, a relic of the past, should not be rejuvenated conventionally; instead, it should be preserved in its glorious state of ruin. My proposal weaves together an artistic vision and a practical approach, marrying the realms of art and architecture to celebrate the historical narrative etched into the very foundation of the manor.

I envision a transformative activity that involves crafting a human figure, a guardian, from mesh, a delicate framework representing the fragile yet enduring nature of the manor itself. To complete this ethereal figure, materials indigenous to Wymering and its surroundings will be utilised. This symbolic endeavour draws inspiration from the ancient belief that humans, too, were shaped from mud, given life by a divine breath, an analogy echoing the essence of Wymering's vivacity.

Much like the manor, a dwelling only truly comes alive when constructed from mud and inhabited, the proposed mesh figures will encircle Wymering as sentinels, each figure embodying the spirit of one of the manor's distinguished rooms. Visitors are invited not merely to witness, but to partake in the resurrection of Wymering's narrative, delving into the intricate details of its construction and materials.

The manor's original materials, modestly forged in proximity, breathe life into its storied past. As an homage to this craftsmanship, the mesh figures, representative of Wymering's guardians, will be fashioned from 30mm GI sheets. Visitors will engage in a communal effort, blending materials discovered in and around the manor, witnessing the human figure materialise before their eyes.

The ephemeral nature of locally forged materials ensures a continuous cycle of decay, prompting communal involvement in the ongoing reconstruction of the figures. The process mirrors the gradual degradation of the manor itself, a living testament to the passage of time.

My fervent support for preserving Wymering as it is stems from the revelations uncovered during my exploration of its worn-out parts. Hair, incorporated into the plastering of a weathered wall, serves as a binding agent, a tangible link to the manor's construction techniques centuries ago. Unconventional materials abound, offering insights into a bygone era.

This envisioned sculpture becomes a dynamic, evolving entity, mirroring Wymering's own journey through time. Through hands-on workshops, participants become contributors to a living masterpiece. The eventual decay of the sculpture presents opportunities for successive generations to partake in its ongoing evolution.

In the spirit of King Nebuchadnezzar II's dream, where figures were constructed from various materials, the proposed sculpture mirrors the cyclical nature of creation and decay. Components from each room, symbolising the heart of Wymering, will find a place in the sculpture, bridging the past with the present.

Conducting hands-on workshops not only infuses vitality into the manor but also generates funds for its sustained development. This initiative transcends generational boundaries, fostering an appreciation for Wymering's significance. It underscores the importance of sustainable and vernacular building materials, harmonising art and architecture in a design that resonates across time, an ode to the enduring spirit of Wymering Manor.

Wymering Man: "Protect The Throne"

In the spirit of Nabukudurruusur's visionary dream, this sculpture serves as a profound synthesis of architectural elegance and poetic resonance. The enigmatic figure it portrays, possessing six upper bodies seamlessly united at a singular base, mirrors the ethereal unity that defines Wymering Manor. Akin to the veins coursing through the sculpture, emblematic of Wymering Manor's intricate design, the artistry seeks to encapsulate the very essence of this historical estate.

Much like the six distinctive chambers within the manor, each body stands as a metaphorical embodiment of the Manor's historical narrative, symbolising the six pivotal epochs that have left their indelible mark. Gazing upon the front facade, a captivating illusion unfolds – the figures appear poised for flight, an allegory for the Manor's imminent resurgence, cradled in the collective embrace of the community and devoted well-wishers. The Wymering Manor, weathered but unwavering, yearns to reclaim its erstwhile splendour, a silent plea immortalised in bronze.

The six-fold representation also transcends the mere delineation of historical epochs; it embodies the cyclical rhythm of time, reflecting the Manor's resilience amid the ebb and flow of neglect. As the statue stands resolute, the ravages of time etched upon its form, it remains an enduring testament to the Manor's enduring spirit. The lifeblood, symbolised by veins coursing with vigour, narrates a tale of endurance against the corrosive touch of time.

Crafted from a fusion of bronze and cotton steel, the very materials chosen for this sculpture evoke the gradual withering experienced by Wymering Manor over time. The interplay of these materials creates a poignant dialogue between permanence and transience. The scaffolding, fashioned from unyielding iron, stands as a symbolic bridge, representing the collaborative efforts of students, the community, and various organisations. It speaks to the collective responsibility in preserving and revitalising the venerable manor.

In this artistic endeavour, the architect-poet seeks to weave a narrative that transcends mere physical representation. It beckons the observer to delve into the layers of history, resilience, and collective aspiration, encapsulating the Wymering Manor's timeless odyssey within the sinuous contours of this evocative sculpture.

Wymering Man

In the heart of Cosham, where the echoes of time linger, there stands a relic of the past, Wymering Manor, an old building weathered by the years, akin to a tired old man who has witnessed the ebb and flow of life's currents.I stumbled upon a lonely chair within the manor's ageing walls. As I gazed upon the chair, I couldn't help but envision a weary old soul, seated in contemplation, staring through the window, lost in the labyrinth of memories. This tired old man, a silent witness to bygone days, now navigates the vastness of the mansion with a fragility that mirrors the passage of time.

I found a similar chair that bore the marks of its own journey.The cracks etched like lines on the old man's face, and moss clinging to it as if nature sought to reclaim its own. Taking it under my wing, I carried it home, cleansing it of the layers of neglect, and decided to breathe new life into it as part of a design project for class.

In the process of dismantling the chair, I envisioned the tired old man of Wymering. The planks, once part of the chair, became the material for his head, while the remaining pieces formed the rest of his body. Each crack in the wood echoed the scars of a life well-lived, and as I pieced it all together, the chair slowly transformed into a physical embodiment of the man dwelling in my imagination.

To ensure mobility, I secured the movable joints with 2-inch screws, allowing the reconstructed figure to move, just like the man within Wymering who now relies on the support of those who care. The frail smile, the occasional tear, and the lowered gaze mirrored in both the wooden creation and the manor itself, each carrying the weight of the past.

As the artistic manifestation of the tired old man took shape, I sensed the echoes of his life story, a narrative etched in the grain of the wood, a silent plea for understanding. Taking him for a walk around the workshop, his head still hung low, I felt a profound connection to the silent storyteller I had crafted from the remnants of a forgotten chair.

In this poetic fusion of art and history, the Wymering Manor emerges as a spectral figure in need of resurrection. Like the tired old man, it silently beckons for help to be brought back to life, its architectural bones begging to be revitalised. Together, the man and the manor share a silent yearning for a revival, a chance to once again stand tall, bearing witness to the unfolding tales of time.

Wymering Manor: Reunion

Our return to the enigmatic Wymering Manor was an experience unlike any other. The air hung heavy with a newfound chill, a stark contrast to the warm welcome we'd received on our previous visit. It was as if the manor itself had secrets to share, secrets that were not as inviting as before.

Upon arrival, we were promptly divided into two groups, setting the stage for an adventure that would push the boundaries of our creativity. Our first task was nothing short of intriguing, we were asked to craft a paragraph about an object in the room using a poetic flair.

We had to cut out words or letters from magazines we'd been instructed to bring along. The missing words, as elusive as they were, had to be filled in with the assistance of an antique typewriter that had found its home in the mansion.

As our fingers danced across the typewriter keys, breathing life into our poetic prose, we felt an indescribable connection to the past. The typewriter's clinks and clatters seemed to resonate with the whispers of history that enveloped Wymering Manor. It was a peculiar yet invigorating exercise that seamlessly blended the vintage with the contemporary.

But the challenges didn't end there. Once we had crafted our poetic narratives, we were tasked with a remarkable transformation. The same object had to be described, not in poetic terms, but through the lens of architecture. This exercise encouraged us to view the object from a different perspective, to dissect its form and function, and to translate it into the language of structure and design.

While we delved into this architectural exploration, the sound of music enveloped the room. It was as though the manor itself had orchestrated a symphony, and the melodies of Wymering danced through the air. The other group had ingeniously used plastic cups to create an intriguing musical composition, and the fusion of sounds from our typewriters and their plastic cups was a testament to the ever-evolving creativity within these ancient walls.

The transition between these exercises wasn't seamless for me. A sense of disturbance had settled in my mind, and my thoughts seemed elusive, like shadows in the dimly lit corridors of the manor. I wasn't alone in this struggle, as my group members shared similar sentiments. It was as if the mysterious aura of Wymering had momentarily clouded our imaginative faculties.

In the blink of an eye, the sound exercise concluded, leaving me feeling as though I had barely dipped my toes into its depths. Time had played its tricks, whisking us through an experience that felt both fleeting and profound.

Our return to Wymering Manor had ignited the flames of creativity in unexpected ways. The manor, with its chilling air and ageless mysteries, had once again proven to be a wellspring of inspiration. It left us pondering the transformative power of space and the boundless potential of creative exploration. As we departed, I couldn't help but wonder what secrets Wymering had yet to reveal on our next visit, for its enigmatic charm had left an indelible mark on our creative souls.

Wymering Manor: A Journey Re-Unveiled

As we stepped into our classrooms on that Friday, our thoughts and activities during our last visit to Wymering Manor still danced vividly in my mind. The quaint charm of the manor, the historical stories that whispered through the aged walls, and the intriguing lessons we learned from our visit had left an indelible mark on my memory. It was an adventure that ignited our imagination and shed light on a new perspective.

Mark's lecture that Friday about him attending an event recently, was an eye-opener in the most unexpected way. It centerer on creating a basic path for children to engage in chores while nurturing their creative sparks. Instead of dictating a structured regimen, they advocated for a novel approach – offering children a collection of random objects and encouraging them to explore the limitless realms of their imagination.

It was a concept that struck a chord with me. I realised that this unconventional method could unlock the reservoir of creativity within young minds more effectively than conventional routines. Allowing children to play with a variety of objects and then asking them to express their thoughts and ideas could unleash an ocean of creativity. It was a perspective that promised to bridge the gap between structured education and boundless creativity.

Following Mark’s thought provoking lecture, we were tasked with a unique assignment. We were asked to sketch or depict our feelings and experiences during our visit to Wymering Manor. It was a moment to pour our hearts and souls onto the canvas, to capture the essence of our journey through our own unique perspectives.

The sketch I created was a testament to the extraordinary journey that unfolded before my eyes. It told the story of our visit, from the very first moment we stepped foot into the manor to our final farewell in a single line drawing. I added a few strokes and colours later on the single line sketch. I conveyed not just the sights but also the emotions that swirled within me during the visit.

Wymering Manor, with its rich history and charming ambiance, had evoked a myriad of feelings within me. The sketch allowed me to express the awe and wonder I experienced when I first crossed its threshold. It conveyed the emotions that surged as I ventured deeper into its secrets, the curiosity that drove me to explore every nook and cranny, and the sense of fulfilment that came when I left, knowing I had witnessed a piece of history.

Our journey to Wymering Manor was more than a simple visit. As I gazed at my sketch, I realised that the memories we created that day would continue to inspire and linger in our minds, just as they did in mine, long after we had left Wymering behind.

“Wymering: Echoes of History"

There are moments when a name sends ripples of anticipation across your body, sparking a thrilling sense of mystery and adventure. For me, Wymering Manor was one such name. It all began when Belinda announced a site visit to this enigmatic place and encouraged us to delve into the manor's history beforehand. Little did I know that this journey would unfold as a captivating exploration of a gateway to Portsmouth's past, shrouded in centuries of stories, and eerie secrets hidden in its very walls.

Expectations were high, as the photos I had seen did not truly capture the grandeur of the manor. Wymering Manor, nestled in Cosham, is more than just a historic house. It's a time capsule, a tangible link to the earliest days of Portsmouth, with mentions in the Doomsday Book itself. Its age alone had me spellbound.

As we stepped across the threshold, I felt a shiver down my spine. Wymering Manor whispered secrets from its aged timbers and weathered bricks. The stories that had accumulated here were simultaneously frightening and deeply intriguing. They tugged at my curiosity like a ghostly presence.

My attention shifted from bricks and wood to something rather unexpected—hair. Strands, delicate and thin, entwined in the lime plastering of the walls. I couldn't discern whether it belonged to a horse or a human, but my hunch leaned towards the latter. Having owned a horse in my youth, I felt their hair was coarser than what I observed.

The creaking of the floorboards beneath my feet added an eerie soundtrack to our exploration. With each step, it was as though the manor itself was communicating, sharing its history, one haunting creak at a time.

My fingers instinctively reached for the centuries-old metal bars on the windows. What stories had they witnessed? Whose hands had grasped them? The sense of connection with the past was palpable, almost as if I could touch history itself.

Throughout the manor, dolls were strategically placed, their eyes seemingly following my every move. It was an unnerving sensation, as if they held secrets of their own. What stories did these dolls harbour? They added an aura of intrigue to the already mysterious atmosphere.

Our visit took a creative turn as we split into two groups. Through drawing exercises, we paired up, held hands, and navigated blindfolded, immersing ourselves in the emotional essence of the manor. We even attempted to sketch its exterior while blindfolded, an exercise that brought us closer to the manor in ways we couldn't have anticipated.

Wymering Manor is more than just a historical site; it's a living, breathing repository of stories and mysteries. This visit revealed a world of history, secrets, and unexpected discoveries. The manor left an indelible impression, and I left with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of our past, and the importance of experiencing history in such a tangible and immersive way. Wymering Manor, with its creaking floors, haunted dolls, and countless untold stories, has etched its memory in my heart as a place where the past truly comes alive.

Creative Kaleidoscope: Back to the Drawing Boards

Stepping back into the classroom after a blissful three-month vacation is like embarking on a new adventure, even for seasoned college students. The anticipation, the excitement, it's all there, reminiscent of the first day of school as a child. Little did I know that this particular return to class would unfold as a captivating tale of collaboration and creativity, weaving together personal treasures and artistic expression.

As we settled into our seats, we were asked to bring a cereal box and drawing supplies to class. Intrigued and curious, we each selected an item that held profound significance to us. For me, it was my cherished liquor flask, a constant companion during some of my most trying moments.

Upon our professor's request, we placed our chosen items on the tables in front of us, forming a unique mosaic of personal artefacts. It was a tableau of memories and meanings, each box representing a chapter of our lives. I couldn't help but wonder what stories lay behind the other objects adorning the tabletop.

Our professor guided us to dismantle the cereal box before us, setting the stage for a creative journey that would transcend expectations. With eager anticipation, we tore into the cardboard, revealing its inner structure, a blank canvas for our imagination.

The next step was to sketch the item we had brought. As I delicately drew the contours of my liquor flask, I couldn't help but reflect on the moments it had been there for me, providing solace during challenging times. It felt like I was capturing a part of my own story on paper.

But the adventure had only just begun. We were instructed to draw the items placed on the table in front of us, not on our own cereal box but on the box belonging to the person seated next to us. This unexpected twist added an exciting layer of collaboration to our creative endeavour. Each stroke of the pencil connected our stories with those of our peers.

As the drawings continued to grow, shifting from one box to another, a sense of unity and shared purpose enveloped the classroom. Portsmouth, a city teeming with life and details, began to emerge on our little pieces of cardboard. The lines between our individual efforts blurred as we created a collective masterpiece.

By the end of our collaborative journey, our artwork had transcended scale and measurement. What emerged was not just a drawing, but a tapestry of observations, thoughts, and shared experiences. It felt like a book with many authors, each contributing a unique chapter to create something truly magical.

As we gazed upon the final composition, an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and camaraderie washed over the room. We were eager to see each other's creations and to witness the convergence of diverse perspectives and artistic styles. The amalgamation of all those pieces of paper had birthed something extraordinarily beautiful.

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This unexpected and imaginative journey from vacation mode to creative collaboration transformed our return to class into an unforgettable experience. Through the simple act of sketching, we had become authors of a unique story, a story of unity, creativity, and the beauty that emerges when diverse voices and perspectives come together. It was a reminder that even the most ordinary objects can become extraordinary when seen through the lens of shared creativity.