Jessica Tapley Architecture Portfolio
FRAGILITY
This project aims to highlight the significance of urban fragility in the cosmopolitan city, namely Hong Kong. As Hong Kong prioritises modernisation, older, densely populated residential buildings in poorer districts tend to become neglected, leaving them to appear increasingly fragile.
Through the use of pastel colours and the intricate detailing of the buildings, including AC units and clothing, I am attempting to capture the feeling of habitation and life. I am also experimenting with various perspectives, highlighting that although the buildings themselves are weathered, they still portray a sense of liveliness and vitality.
Pen and
Artist Transcript
Watercolour
32 x 43cm
54 x 70cm
Gouache Paint on Card Series
32 x 43cm
Watercolour Experimentation
Pen and Watercolour Experimentation
Hong Kong’s lifestyle can be described as fast-paced while routine repetitive. The compact, uniform skyscrapers reflect the rapid growth of the city, hence, influencing the fluid and hurried movement of the citizens. With the dynamic daily routine, I tend to find my days blur together, in a way distorting my memory of different Hong Kong sceneries. This is inspiring me to experiment with different shapes and lenses, particularly with the fish-eye lens, producing a hemispherical shape. Illustrating a one-point perspective creates depth and utilising the thin brushstrokes presents a blurred effect; both showing the city’s quick and repetitive routines.
Gouache Paint on Card 71cm diameter
ORIENTAL IMPRINT
Photoshop Composition
Although numerous streets in Hong Kong Island now appear to be commercialised and westernised, I do however realise that locals still truly value preserving Chinese culture and traditions. The vibrant red lanterns juxtapose with the black and white background, exuding the festive atmosphere at Chinese New Year, bringing to me a sense of nostalgia and homely comfort.
Pen Experimentation
Paper 58 x 75cm
Graphite and Colour Pencil on Watercolour
During my trip to the UK, I was engrossed by the baronial, gothic architecture as UK buildings clearly encapsulate its rich history. However, with the cultural and architectural contrast between Hong Kong and the UK, I am using this project as a way to illustrate the difference between old and new. Additionally, knowing UK’s significant influence on Hong Kong during the colonial period, I am also trying to subtly hint at how certain features of contemporary Hong Kong have been inherited from western gothic architecture, particularly through its churches.
DUALITY
Line Pen on Watercolour Paper 70 x 54cm
Fine
Summer Sketches in the UK
After carrying out etching trials on the corner building, I wanted to experiment with etching a sunflower as I was intrigued by the recurring lines and various textures. This process begins by applying different coloured inks using a roller onto scratched plastic plate. By using a cloth, I rub the excess ink off and use a q-tip to blend the coloured inks, making the carved lines more defined when imprinted onto a damp piece of paper. This sunflower series accentuates the intricate details that exude the flower’s beauty and vibrancy.
Etching Experiments
Etching Lithography 20 x 29cm
FLUORESCENCE
1) 2) 4) 3)
Artist Research Process
ANTHOLOGY
Flowers have the power to influence our moods behaviours. Through these gouache paintings, I have realised how different species of flowers can change our emotions.
Although flowers are typically seen as just decorative pieces, I believe that every species of flowers connotes a different mood, influencing the atmosphere of a room. Through these gouache paintings, I am trying to capture the beauty of the flowers through colour and
Gouache Experimentations
Gouache Paint on Card 77 x 30cm
SCENT OF FEMININITY
Pen and Pencil Observational Sketches
In this project, I intend to encapsulate how fragrances are a key element of femininity with their flowery and sweet aroma. The pastel colours suggest the delicacy of these perfumes, hinting at a sense of nostalgia or familiarity as these distinctive bottles act as a reminder of our mother’s scent. Each bottle portrays the character of the scent within as it often shapes and defines an individual brand’s characteristics. Additionally, the transparency and various shapes and lines intrigue me, with the reflection in the glass creating unique patterns.
Pencil on Watercolour Paper 54 x 45cm
Sepia Pencils Artist Transcript
The petals of an orchid are the inspiration for this project. I am intrigued by how petals gracefully fall from a flower bud, consequently, in my designs, I am imagining how to “dissect” the petals of a flower and piece them together in an abstract way, appearing as if it is a 3D puzzle.
Additionally, working with new materials such as cardboard to mould the shapes is intriguing. The process of converting 2D sketches into stable 3D models fascinates me.
Maquettes
Initial Sketches
ABSCISSION Cardboard Sculpture 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
THE CLIMB TO SUSTAINABILITY
Hong Kong continuously develops and expands its economy, however, I realise that Hong Kong is losing its natural beauty in order to do so. My friend climbing the building symbolises the great difficulties in trying to preserve Hong Kong’s natural environment. No matter how determined and passionate the person is in wanting to achieve sustainability, it is challenging without the help from others.
Photography
Composition
Acrylic Paint on Wood 99 x 68 cm
MODERNISATION
This project demonstrates the negative effects of modernisation, which is the abandonment of older buildings. My friend in this painting is seen to be stamping on to an old residential building. This action represents the modern desire to leave the past behind and focus on building more contemporary skyscrapers.
I am also showing two famous skyscrapers from the Hong Kong skyline, as well as the Tsing Ma Bridge as the backdrop to the focal point the young person stepping on history.
Composition
Digital Figure Drawings
Acrylic Paint on Wood 118 x 89cm