Running Head: Art and Architecture

Art and Architecture
Natalie Sperling
Kaplan University

While thinking about what I was going to write about for this assignment, I decided to take a walk down Main Street in Worcester. Older buildings and the intricate detail that they hold have always fascinated me. They certainly do not make buildings the way that they used to. Architecture serves a dual purpose. It provides for our many human needs such as shelter, work, play, worship etc. and it also gives our cities their distinctive look (Janaro Altshuler, 2009). One building that caught my eye is Mechanics Hall. This is a concert hall in Worcester, Massachusetts, approximately 12 miles from my home. An architect named Elbridge Boyden built Mechanics Hall in 1857. The total cost for the building and the land was $140,129. He built it using a Renaissance Revival style. The building has since been restored in 1977. Architectural historians have judged this hall as the nations finest pre Civil war concert hall. Boyden used oak timbers for the frame, mortar for the floors, bricks for the sides of the buildings and iron and sandstone for the front of the building. The exterior surface of the hall is layered with windows, decorations and columns. The iron supports the decorative columns and high arching windows. It is very elaborate and inviting for people to come in and look around. The main hall has the most detail. It is 80 feet wide, 131 feet long and 40 feet high with a beautiful mahogany staircase. The decor of Mechanics Hall consists of portraits of well-known prominent Worcester residents. The hall still has many of its unique features but with some modern design and accommodations. The beauty of this building is hidden in downtown Worcester, and I would suggest if you were ever in the area to go and check it out. I love to visit New York City for culture and entertainment. While I was there on a hot summer day last year, I really began to take in all of the street performers. While the streets of New York can be loud and bustling, I was totally distracted by the sounds of hands clapping, feet stomping and metal clanging. As I turned to see what was going on, I noticed 5 people who seemed to be in their late teens putting on a show with dancing and music using nothing but everyday household items. These street performers are using their bodies as a way of an art form in self-expression. Art is defined as the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles of what is beautiful, appealing or of more than ordinary significance. Since all symbols are abstractions, the process of creating a dance requires the process of abstracting (Watson, 2011). Each person that observes the performance uses his or her imagination to grasp a different meaning. Street performance is not only a way for people to express themselves, but it is a way for them to entertain others, as well. Most street performers choose to do this for gratuities. The most popular shows are called “circle shows”, which means that people will gather around to watch the performance that has a distinctive beginning and end. I really enjoy watching this type of art because it says to me that anyone can find a talent and express their creativity. They are very spontaneous and accessible, and no two shows are ever the same. The performers want to share their artistic talents and abilities with others as well as gain self-confidence for themselves. A good performance can enlighten the audience as well as the artist. The art of street theater is unlike any other. This art form is created upon a direct relationship with the audience. In conclusion, I learned a very valuable lesson from this assignment. Art and architecture come in many different shapes, sizes and forms. Architecture, such as buildings and bridges takes finite detail and planning to ensure safety and aesthetics. Art can be a little more playful when it comes to colors and meanings that they want to portray with their work. I know that as a spectator, I will look closer now so I can gain a better understanding and appreciation for the artist.

Reference:
Busker World - Your Comprehensive Guide to Busking. (n.d.). Busker World - Your Comprehensive Guide to Busking. Retrieved July 17, 2012, from http://www.buskerworld.com
Janaro, R. P., & Altshuler, T. C. (2009). The art of being human (9th ed.). New York: Longman.
Watson, A. (2011, October 8). How Abstraction and Aesthetics Contribute to the Creative Process | Suite101.com. Suite101.com: Online Magazine and Writers' Network. Retrieved July 16, 2012, from http://suite101.com/article/how-abstraction-and-aesthetics-contribute-to-the-creative-process-a392346