FOLLY

Abdul Aziz Abdul Hussain, Vivian Gabrail, Anthony Iamonaco, Chris Mohan, Cristian Stefanescu

Follies can be seen as urban interventions, where existing destinations or buildings are revisited or reinvented through the addition of a new and unique symbol, meaning or context. Furthermore, the follies provide new opportunities to the spaces or buildings they inhabit that may have lost a sense of place in the community. The folly is playful, allowing artistic form to reflect a greater concept and meaning.

The urban swing, an intervention into an unused public space in a Queen St. alley way, redefines the space by giving it a new identity, and encouraging the use of a previously unrecognized space.

On a site defined by Yonge St. and Bay St. to the east and west and Temperance St. and Adelaide St. to the north and south sits the Bay-Adelaide Centre, a failed attempt in constructing a skyscraper that resulted in only the building's
foundation, underground parking and the core of the first few storeys being built. Today, its remians an abandoned dream, an empty shell. Its lost identity is now being addressed by the use of its surface as an advertising billboard. This “second-hand” use of the building redefines its content and context, thus its meaning.


MANIFESTO - The Power of the Folly
Super Folly: the folly exists singularly within a space. Once constructed/placed on site, it steps into reality and moves a step closer in the direction of architecture as it roots itself in
constructability and physicality.

Loud Folly: its loud colour and formal expression contribute to a strong visual and experiential impact. This folly is born to stand out.

Playful Folly: not limited by the requirements that generally restrict architecture, this folly presents an opportunity for artistic expression. This translates into whimsical and dynamic creations that result in one's admiration and/or enjoyment.


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