My Thoughts.
Architecture, just like any other manifestation of artistic talent, can be utilized to express a plethora of elements. Ideas, beliefs, emotions, hidden messages, and themes are all a portion of the inexhaustible list. Political concepts can also be a part of this list; I was able to enjoy this project through and through by deciding to merge two of my areas of passion, architecture, and politics. And in doing so, I happened to stumble upon a field of study, one completely new to me, called "Environmental Psychology." According to Raymond De Young at the School of Natural Resources and Environment (University of Michigan), this field "examines the interrelationship between environments and human affect, cognition, and behavior" (De Young). This field applies to both built and natural environments. As Psychology Today summarizes, environmental psychology investigates how the physical spaces surrounding us influence the way we, as human beings, unconsciously feel about, consciously think about, and consequently interact with the world.
Before jumping in to the more complicated idea of how I blended architecture and democracy to arrive at my distinctive idea, it might be helpful to examine how exactly architecture affects us in the real world, and in turn, how we affect architecture. For example, look at the pictures below.
Most who look at such buildings will likely feel moody, depressed, downcast, miserable, and even trapped. Both are squat buildings with dark coloring, and very rectangular in shape. Further, the lack of large, open spaces and effective use of windows add to the sense of being closed off from the world.
On the other hand, look at these pictures below as well.
These buildings convey a sense of freedom through wide, open spaces and transparent walls and windows. They also blend in much better with their respective environments as opposed to the two previous buildings. Those observing such architecture tend to feel elated, inspired, cheerful, and free.
I believe the same concept applies to architecture; architecture has the potential to directly influence observers, or even passers-by. Through having democratic buildings and monuments, some of which are showcased on my website, citizens may both consciously and unconsciously grow more familiar, or even more satisfied, with the idea, whether such buildings are built in democratic or non-democratic countries. The architect may have not even intended to portray democracy through the architecture — it's all about the perception and point of view of the public, much like how interpretation of art is completely up to the observer. Once an artwork leaves the artist's hands, it is subject to the mercy of the observer.
For instance, I have interviewed seven people from each country of the Group of Seven. They all responded to both the question "Do you believe architecture affects us in our daily lives?" as well as "Do you believe democracy can be portrayed in architecture?" with strong affirmations.
Signs of democracy may be as simple as physical aspects, such as inscriptions and carvings. However, they may also be more hidden, clearly visible only to the inquiring eye. For instance, the concealed democratic messages may have more to do with the history of the building as well as symbolism.
Nevertheless, I believe that architects have been granted the immense power to create a built environment for the international community today. This built environment can affect us as a society in both positive and negative ways. Next time, don't simply brush past a piece of architecture, whether it be a squat, hideous building or an impressive work of art. Stop by in front of it. Think. Consider. Reflect. What did the architect try to show? What emotions are you, personally, experiencing? What themes or messages can you find? Democracy is only one example of what might be waiting for you behind the doors.
Useful Sources for More...
Are you interested in environmental psychology? Here are some possible books for you to consult that have helped me understand the concept. Click on them to find out more. You can also look at the sources on my Acknowledgements page where all my sources are listed.
Environmental Psychology Principles and Practice by Robert Gifford
Handbook of Environmental Psychology by Robert B. Bechtel & Arzah Ts'erts'man
Handbook of Environmental Psychology: Volume 2 by Daniel Stokols & Irwin Altman