studio heech's machine unlocks ritualistic art paths within MMCA in south korea

Studio Heech Explores Ritual Aspects of MMCA in Gwacheon

Studio Heech’s project, MMCA Ritual Machine, delves into the ritual aspects of the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) in Gwacheon, South Korea. The project explores the parallels between the museum experience and medieval pilgrimages in grand cathedrals, where visitors follow a prescribed sequence of spaces. The design carefully considers the architectural forms and spatial rhythms of the museum, aiming to reassess the relationships between visitors, architects, and curators within the museum context. Drawing from the principle of a marble machine, Ritual Machine generates geometric shapes representing key architectural elements of MMCA Gwacheon, such as the rotunda, spiral ramp, atrium, and circular roof garden. These elements serve as both the background and focal points for the museum’s rituals, becoming central to the visitor’s experience.

all images courtesy of MMCA, Studio Heech

Geometric Forms act as Architectural Metaphors in MMCA

The project by Studio Heech draws attention to the ritualistic nature of museum visits, likening the curator’s planned route to the procedures of religious rituals. MMCA Gwacheon is particularly tied to the concept of ritual in terms of museum experience, from the approach to the museum grounds to the diverse experiences of external spaces. Ritual Machine, as a project, celebrates the ritualistic characteristics inherent in MMCA Gwacheon, emphasizing the relationship between the museum, visitors, architects, and curators. The geometric forms metaphorically reference architectural elements, acting as both the setting and the main actors in the museum rituals. Visitors engage with the ‘museum ritual’ directly through the Ritual Machine or by following the marble run along the ramps.

MMCA Ritual Machine explores the ritual aspects of MMCA in Gwacheon, South Korea

geometric shapes symbolize key architectural forms of MMCA Gwacheon

the project aims to reassess the relationships between visitors, architects, and curators

the elements serve as both backdrop and stage for the museum’s rituals

the Ritual Machine explores the material volume and rhythm of space in MMCA

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project info:

name: MMCA Ritual Machine
architect: Studio Heech | @studioheech

location: Gwacheon, South Korea

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom