Full Swing

Where did January go? The past few weeks flew by and that scares me a bit. This semester is going to be packed and possibly a bit on the intense side. Completing a masters degree in one year on a completely new subject is crazy. It is probably a good thing that I did not know what I was getting into before hand. Now that I am immersed in the course it will come together but it is a lot of work but I am so glad I am here. 

I am a creative so presentations, projects and creative things are a comfort zone and enjoyable and are easy for me to produce. Writing is often a challenge. Telling a story is great but writing academically and professionally stretches me and makes my head hurt. This semester is filled with writing assignments and written reports. Condition and Analysis Reports, Project Proposal, Professional Report, and Scoping Reports, etc. I am still learning about all of the reports and it is a huge learning curve but coming along. The professors are wonderful and so willing to help and tutor us.

This past week, even though it was so cold, we embarked on two field trips that were very interesting.  
First, we traveled to Ewell to wander the high street (much like our main streets) and see what is happening or needs to happen with the historic buildings. Some stretches were good and others sad. Within a few blocks it would go from shops and eateries that looked kept and inviting to derelict buildings or buildings with additions that did not add to the value or were not in line with the history behind them.

The first three images were taken on the walk toward Ewell high street, (the littles in their uniforms as the best!) the other six are views down high street. I neglected to take pictures of the really bad portions. It is hard to take pictures of ugly things...

I have a thing for cemeteries especially the old ones and this one in Ewell was so cool! The remaining bell tower from the 12th century church is incredible and the perfect center piece for an old cemetery. Add in the bending trees, ivy covered head stones, some moonlight and it is the setting for any good horror movie.

We also revisited Dorich House which is a museum now and houses the art of the original owner, Dora Gordine. There are some really cool aspects to the house like some of the features in the upstairs apartment, the round door and views. Her studio is amazing and some of the furniture but overall it is an eclectic mix that does not excite me.
The purpose for the visit as a class was to identify defects using thermal-imaging cameras and other equipment along with observation. I will not bore you with those details or images but the following are interesting, especially the spiral 78 stair fire escape, I'd rather take my chances jumping out of a window. I think any artist would appreciate the studio. The window wall faces north and overlooks Richmond gardens. The two sculptures on the platforms are likely the only work of this artis that I like. They are beautiful and graceful. The doors in this building are pretty fantastic too.

Yesterday, I ventured back to the Octagon Room at Orleans House for a more in-depth look at defects and interior finishes. It is such a beautiful building and example of Palladian architecture and baroque inspired interiors. The bus journey and walk to the site are so peaceful and filled with incredible views. It is a favorite place to visit.

This next week will include another visit to the V&A museum to look at their wallpaper collection. There is another rail and worker strike the middle of this next week so I have no idea how things will go. Other than Monday I plan to adventure close to home. I also plan to pay another visit to Strawberry Hill House.

I hope you all have a wonderful week!

​Cheers!