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Summer Show 2023
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In Dialogue with Informality: A Photojournalistic Hub in Downtown Cairo

Project details

Programme
Unit PG18
Year 4

"City in Flux" is a concept proposed by CLUSTER that represents the ongoing conflict between informal activities and the restoration of order in Downtown Cairo. The project aims to connect various activities in the Al Bursa neighbourhood by establishing a photojournalistic hub. Its goals include uncovering local stories, collecting data for street vendors' research, and facilitating discussions between citizens and government parties.

The project consists of three major photography programs: a gallery, workshop, and photo archive room. An extra auditorium is provided, and the ground floor is left open for public events.

The facade is made of recycled plastic chainmail and resembles the traditional Egyptian tent cloth, khayamiya. The chainmail can be draped and undraped depending on the activities. The design aims to provide spaces for congregations, and a photojournalism festival may be held every two years to attract photography enthusiasts from around the world.

The project seeks to address the contradiction between informal activities and law enforcement actions while creating a space for storytelling, research, and discussion in the Al Bursa neighbourhood of Downtown Cairo.

Overview

The building massing covered with a layer of chainmail draping.

Opening Up

Opening the drape allows events to be perceived from the street.

Mysterious Being

The closure of the chainmail drape can facilitate private talks or exhibitions, bringing curiosity to nearby visitors.

Exhibiting in the Neighbourhood

Opening the cloth reveals the exhibitions to the busy street and the neighbourhood.

Inside the Photojournalist Workshop

Dynamic fabric allowing workshop places to be flexible.

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The Bartlett
Summer Show 2023
23 June – 8 July 2023
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