The world through an architectural eye
- KurdishMedia.com
- 03/07/2009 00:00:00
The political events have dominated the Kurdish people’s daily life. It is refreshing to see from time to time a break from all this political events and news. This week there is an opportunity to break from all this politics. A Kurdish student participated in an architectural exhibition as a part of graduation ceremony held by the London South Bank University.
Selvei Al-asssadi, was born in Baghdad to a Kurdish family; she was raised in Kurdistan until her family moved to the UK, when she was seven. This year, Selvei completed her Diploma in architecture with distinction. She participated in an architectural exhibition to display some of her work, which has been the centre of attention of many visitors, including company representatives. The three day exhibition was hosted by the London South Bank University started on 30th June and displayed works for students.
KurdishMedia.com talked to Selvie and asked her to tell our readers about her architectural course, what has she achieved this year and what is next for her?
KurdishMedia.com talked to Selvie and asked her to tell our readers about her architectural course, what has she achieved this year and what is next for her?
Architectural course in brief :
In the UK the course spans over 7 years. I began my studies at the age of 18 straight after my A-levels. At first 7 years to most 18 year olds seems like a life time of education. But for me it was a great opportunity to take advantage of the education system in this country and learn about the beauty of architecture, the inspiration of design, and the mathematics behind structural engineering all within one field.
When I first began my degree (part 1) in 2002 I simply knew this course was made for me and had a lot to offer. But to design one has to appreciate existing architecture and learn from the likes of Gaudi, Zaha and Ghery. There is an immense amount of competition at the beginning of the course right through to working in this field. One has to remember never to let others discourage you from your goals and everything is achievable. I remember constantly being afraid of what others might think of my design so I simply just showed approximately 10% of what I actually worked on and scrapped the rest. Once completing part 1 I was given an opportunity to gain two amazing years in a practise.
Two years rapidly went by where I became a bit more of an individual and I applied for my part 2 diploma course at London South Bank. Another year, another university and a new group of friends, but what was truly new was the mentor, Lilly Kudic. At first I truly admired this lady for the power and attention she gained once walking into lecture theatre. In her unit I began to look at architecture in a completely new way, new direction. It was no longer about viewing other great architects but using our best possible skills to create something truly glorious and celebrating it.
This year in brief:
"Diploma is all about excellence"
Using computer skills to convey ones ideas can help you achieve the unachievable. Geometry, form finding and analysis of existing art, architecture, etc. is one way to help the creative juices flowing. This past year was not about simply passing the course but to design something that was inspired by my findings. Architecture does not have to be read so simply such as text and does not have to be as complicated as art.
I have truly enjoyed every minute of this course. From the sleepless nights to the dedication I've applied to this course I would recommend it to every student that is out there contemplating this course. The creativity and control of your design is an adrenaline that can't be described through words.
What's next for Selvie?
My dream is to get the opportunity to visit my homeland Kurdistan to make it what it once was. It is important for the privileged ones who have had the opportunity to study abroad to take back what they have learnt to apply the knowledge to make our home land habitable. What may be exciting yesterday maybe not mean be as much tomorrow. So I plan to build my portfolio and continue entering competitions.
- KurdishMedia.com
- 03/07/2009 00:00:00