Credits
From OLAY STUDIO
Africa is a land of symbols and myths, even in architecture. Architecture in West Africa is the architecture of mud and clay and symbols. The building is formed in the embrace of soil, which is a symbol of mother earth, and rises from it. Symbols act as a visual link to the continent's rich cultural heritage and help create unique architectural spaces that are relevant to the context. Patterns act as a visual language through which stories, traditions and beliefs are conveyed. These patterns can express social status, transmit spiritual powers and represent cultural messages and concepts.Every African tribe has myths, stories, legends and oral history.
In this project, the focus was mainly on the myths in which women's faces are very impressive. Some myths speak of an original human mother from whom all people sprang. For example, in Togo, it is said that when Uwolowu, God, created mankind, he first created a woman on earth and through her gave birth to the first child, the first human being.
Also, a woman without children is a source of regret in African society, the birth of a baby gives security to the housewife and she enjoys having a safe family, for this reason, the position of mother has been paid more attention compared to other women. The mother herself may not be a big person in the society. But it delivers an important person to the society. With all these myths and values, women have a weak and worthless role in African societies and are captive to racial discrimination. For this purpose, the design of the project, in addition to the bold functional role, requires a symbolic and rich pattern that speaks of gender equality for the women of this land.
With this investigations, the design of the project was configured in three cultural, functional and climatic layers, as follows.
1- Culture, symbols and signs
Woman is a symbol of family, unity, mother, child, birth, reproduction and survival. To express this, the Adinkra symbols were inspired.
1- the Nkonsonkonson symbol meaning Chain. A symbol of unity, community,which shows the main role of women to create a community.
2- Nyame Biribi WoSoro, A symbol of hope and inspiration. As the main pillar of the family, women are a Women support all family members in difficulties and problems.
By inspiration of these two symbols The volume consisting of two ovals in front of each other and with different dimensions and heights (large dimensions and higher (symbol of men) - small dimensions and shorter (symbol of women)) shows the differences and distinctions and gender discrimination of women against has men.The connection of these two with the rectangular volume is a symbol of discrediting gender divisions and creating unity and equality( Like a child who becomes the link between parents).The oval is a sign of uniqueness and desire for life. This shape represents rebirth, fertility and even immortality, and its combination with the rectangle is a symbol of earthiness.
3- Duafe symbol - A symbol of feminine consideration or good feminine qualities such as patience, prudence, fondness, love, and care.
By inspiration of this symbol and also for climatic reasons ,Two oval volumes are surrounded by bamboo stalks as if a mother is holding her child.
4- Ebon fence - A symbol of safety, security, and love.
Inspiration the form of this symbol in African fabrics installed in the main entrance With symbolic colors and patterns, they double this pattern by casting their shadow on the main entrance floor too.
5- Baobab and fractal geometry
In African culture, these trees are a symbol of collective gatherings, storytelling and ceremonies. whose main form can also be converted into two ovals. Also, placing this tree at the entrance intensifies this symbol.