Work submitted for the competition
"Best Interior Design Diploma 2022/2024".
The work consisted of designing a space corresponding to the silhouette of a film character. For this purpose, the film directed by Jane Campion „The Piano” (1993) was chosen. The project is inspired by a multi-level analysis of the character of Ada McGrath, both in the real space and in the area of spirituality. The project consists of six parts, which together form an exhibition space. They have been placed in one object in the following order: Mountain, Fabrics, Trees, Box, Porowhita and Piano.
The glass used in the project is made with smart glass technology, so the project can be seen from the outside in all its glory. During the time when viewers are inside, the glass is darkened so that the conditions outside do not interfere with the reception.
"Cottage" building
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Light and shadow play an important function in the project, as well as similarly contrasting aspects of perception and experience: silence and sound. The work aims to create a space that not only refers to the film character, but also brings her emotions to life and allows her to experience her story anew. By interpreting and materializing feelings, the author of the work wants to transcend the boundaries of the film screen and create an authentic experience.
a cross-section of arrangements
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Inspiration for the project comes from nature, and the phenomena that occur in it. Because of New Zealand, where the film is set, and its indigenous people, the Maori, there are references to their culture and beliefs in the project.
Vocalization and performance of the aria „O mio babbino caro” from the opera "Giacomo Puccini
performed by Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Top—a pattern forming a wave divided into elements. On the floor a form imitating water, separated from the part suspended on top by a curtain of light. Evenly distributed light points create a curtain effect, a kind of portal to the rest of the exhibition.
Textiles
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Fabrics—refer to the symbol of Koru and Pare from the Maori culture. On the floor made of resin were placed shells forming the shape of the Koru—a symbol of nurturing and the relationship between child and parent. Fabrics were placed above the form.
Trees
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Trees—crude trunks in a thicket to be overcome to some extent.
Box
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Box—a glass cuboid form, inside of which there is a wooden structure with two rooms. The entrance and exit are arranged with light. The first room is completely soundproofed, leaving visitors with their own thoughts. Moving to the second, they come into contact with music; with sound as a fundamental element of the living world, a carrier of content that expresses thoughts and feelings. After time spent in silence, it takes on a different meaning. The only question is whether this is a form of deliverance from the already unbearable silence, an unexpected change of further perspective, or something expected. At this stage of the project, the viewer's feelings become even more important. Depending on the accompanying emotions, they will be able to know their own ending for Ada's story.
Porowhita
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
Porowhita—otherwise known as the circle of life, without beginning or end. It captures the moment when Ada, being in the water, looks up. The light that penetrates the sheet creates an ethereal glow. Luminous optical fibers were woven into the fabrics.
Thepiano—was recreated based on the 19th century instrument present in the film. The key analogous to the one used by the heroine to confess her love to Baines is different from the others. It has been altered to refer to the metal finger prosthesis George made for Ada. It is thanks to it that she can play again.
Piano
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
The piano is located behind a structure imitating the rippling surface of water. The falling light creates reflections like those appearing on its surface, and the image is slightly shifted in the reflection. Depending on the side, we will see a different effect. One acts as a mirror, while the other shows the image of the water in places. This is related to the aspect of choice, symbolically we stay in the water or swim out. There is a smell of salt all around.
Piano
© Sandra Wiktoria Dymacz
The piano is a source of sound, which, being in the distance, can be heard very softly. There is no stool standing next to the instrument. This has a symbolic meaning. It shows that our inner voice can be brought out even despite limitations. In fact, the answer to everything is found within ourselves.
Sandra Wiktoria DYMACZ
Illustrations: © Author
