Liminal Space : The Memory Machine

Project 2 (Grad Dip Architecture 09 UCA Canterbury)

Liminal Space

Origin: 1880–85; <>

Liminality is derived from ‘limen’, meaning threshold. The concept of liminal space as introduced by anthropologist Victor Turner, suggests the idea of ambiguity and ambivalence. This in-between space should allow active exchanges of ideologies, concepts and methods of working. There is an indication of a transition from one state or space to another, an on-going search for answers, yet the end point might not or need not be defined. Therefore, the ‘liminal space’ might be read as a metaphorical realm where ideas and concepts: artistic, political, cultural, social or otherwise, are in constant states of contestation and negotiation.

Lim Le Ann: Liminality in the Arts

“The Memory Machine”

Memory is integral to experience and it is the interception of memory where opinions can be altered.The Memory Machine sits in the area of flux between Encoding (Receiving, Combining and combining information), Storage (Creation of Permanent Record) and Retrieval (Calling up information responding to stimuli).

The Memory Machine enables the Retrieval of past memories of an age gone by stimuli of materiality and form. It Encodes new memories through its use as an event on the Liminal Space of the train and it strengthens Storage of the Memory by providing review able photographic evidence.

Memories are Falsified, stored memories are hijacked and the Users are left questioning their experience of Trains throughout their life.

The Machine questions “Authenticity”, not only of the Memory but of the Machine itself. The brain is questioned if this is Authentic by the user, its look and materials appear aged and of a past time however it is not consistent. The process itself is also False/Authentic, the act of using props and background is strongly false however the photographic results appear Authentic through their Aged appearance and presentation.

The machine is a paradox that does not strive provide an answer but merely a question

Chris Simmons 0