By C. J. De Mel, Jadetimes News
Archipelagic Void: A New Chapter in the Serpentine Pavilion Series
Pavilion Inspiration and Design
An architect has drawn inspiration from the open courtyards of traditional Korean homes for this year’s summer pavilion at the Serpentine Galleries in central London. Titled ‘Archipelagic Void’, the 23rd Serpentine Pavilion, located in Kensington Gardens, opens on June 7.
Pavilion Features
This innovative pavilion will feature a soundscape, a library, and a series of performances and talks. South Korean architect Minsuk Cho expressed that he was "honored and grateful" to unveil the pavilion. The structure consists of five distinct "islands," each varying in size and form. These islands encompass different functional spaces, including a gallery, library, auditorium, tea house, and play tower, all arranged around a central void inspired by the traditional Korean Madang.
Design Philosophy
Cho explained, “To realize the pavilion, we began by asking what can be uncovered and added to the Serpentine site, which has already hosted over 20 iterations from renowned architects and artists. Instead of viewing it as a carte blanche, we embraced the challenge of integrating existing peripheral elements while exploring the center as a void."
Key Installations
Sound Installation: The gallery will host a six channel sound installation by musician and composer Jang Young Gyu, blending sounds from nature and human activities recorded in Kensington Gardens with traditional Korean music.
Tea House: Designed by James Grey West.
Library Of Unread Books: Created by artist Heman Chong and archivist Renee Staal.
Play Tower: Features a bright orange net for visitors to climb.
Auditorium: The largest island includes benches built into its inner walls for performances and talks.
Growing Interest in Korean Culture
Cho noted the growing international interest in South Korean culture has provided him with more global opportunities. However, he mentioned that South Korea is still "just starting to be known," often requiring him to explain the country’s economic and cultural context in detail during presentations. He contrasted this with American architects who do not need to provide extensive historical context about the United States.
Future Projects by Mass Studies
Cho’s Seoul-based firm, Mass Studies, is involved in several significant cultural projects, including the transformation of a 1930s thermoelectric power station into a cultural complex along the Han River, described as a "budget Tate Modern project." Another notable project is the new “Seoul Cinematheque” in Chungmuro, which will feature a vertical stack of cinemas aimed at archiving films and supporting independent filmmakers.