Project 3 :
Performing Arts Centre
WMPAC
WMPAC, known as Wangsa Maju Performing Arts Centre which is a house of Modern Contemporary performing arts cater for the local community in Wangsa Maju. WMPAC aims to promote the performing art culture into the local context , influencing a culture within the proximity, by opening its doors for every society class within the area. Besides promoting, WMPAC houses an Auditorium and Black Box opened for small-scale performing arts production from young talents, providing a venue for cultivation.
Stretching along Jalan Wangsa Delima, WM Performing Arts Centre attracts the community around with its extruded volume cladded with vibrant red aluminium panels. The massing is hard to be unnoticed given its hierarchy of volume and colour, providing enough contrast to seek attention.
The initial inspiration came from the active use of mirrors in daily lives, especially for Performing Arts. Performers utilise mirrors during rehearsals. Mirrors give a different perspective to the performer while rehearsals, turning them into audiences at the same time while performing in front of the mirror. Practicing in front of a mirror helps them to spot their mistakes to prevent it from happening on stage.
Mirrors reflect a space depending on the direction with some light source. The reflected space gives a virtual volume and dimension, mirrors becoming the portal to it. Hence, the interest to explore the world beyond the reflective plane.
The overall form is expressed through clear cut massings instead of material due to local climate constraints. The massing gives a direct dialogue to the local community with the existing hierarchy of form and colours.
The intention was to have as many approaches as possible, referring to the intended program, precedent studies and site response. The largest human density spaces such as Auditorium, Black Box and cafe set as an attraction to each approach.
Performing Arts in the local context in general is under rated and the exposure to the public is underwhelming. Therefore, WMPAC seeks to focus more on promoting Performing Arts to the public. Other supportive spaces for screening and production comes along with an effective promotion. With a greater number of people introduced to Performing Arts, there will be a greater opportunity for the other program to develop and sustain in the long term.
