Time and Date  

: 

26 March 2008, 9.00 - 11.00 am

Venue  

: 

Conference Room, Department of Architecture, SDE1 Level 3, School of Design and Environment, NUS   

Student's Name 

: 

Chong Keng Hua

Title of Thesis   

: 

Representation of Architecture in Jiehua and Yingzao Fashi    

Abstract 

: 

This thesis explores the visuo-spatial cognitive processes in the representation of geometric space, through graphical representation of architecture in jiehua [界画] and Yingzao Fashi [营造法式]. Jiehua is a genre of line painting that features architecture, while Yingzao Fashi is a Chinese building construction manual consists of many architectural drawings. They are representatives of artistic and technical representation respectively during the period of Five Dynasties and Northern Song. The objectives of the research are to find out how geometric space could be objectively and systematically represented during this period, and whether this could be illustrated by a shared basis of spatial understanding between different mediums.

Graphical representations of architecture in these cases are first analyzed in two ways: 1) to study the graphical schemata that were adopted to denote perceptual understanding of space; 2) to study the graphical conventions that were developed to organize space conceptually. The identified graphical schemata and conventions are then compared and examined in terms of their underlying frames of reference.

The findings show that there is a clear inclination toward the allocentric (i.e. absolute and intrinsic) frames of reference underlying the graphical schemata and conventions adopted in the two cases. Such consistency in frame of reference presents a possible shared basis of spatial understanding between various mediums. It also points toward a dominant systematic way of “reading” graphical representation of geometric space during Five Dynasties and Northern Song. Furthermore, this allocentric inclination also differs from egocentric inclination found in Renaissance linear perspective. It suggests that frame of reference could be one of the factors that lead to diverse ways of reading and representing geometric space in different contexts.

Keywords: urban space, urban development process, institutional change, transitional economy, dualism, pro-growth coalition, ambiguous property rights, discretionary urban planning

Under the recently established open-exam system, academic staff as well as research students are welcome to attend the Ph.D. oral defence. 

The candidate will give a 45-minute presentation, followed by a time of Q&A and subsequently, where necessary, a closed-door session involving only the exam panel will take place. For the open session, please note the following guidelines. 

1. The exam panel members can ask specific questions on the thesis as well as general questions to test the fundamentals and knowledge relevant to the subject.

2. The candidate's supervisor(s) can be present as observer(s) without Q&A right. 

3. All other participants can ask questions pertaining to the candidate's presentation during the Q&A session. 

4. Besides time control and moderating the exam process, the Chair of the exam panel has the right to intervene or overrule if, in his/her judgment, a question raised is inappropriate, irrelevant or inconsequential to the examination.

We look forward to your participation.