Entry for Holocaust Memorial Competition (2010)

The first is an examination of genocide – past, present and future; and the basic required responses to any genocide - acknowledgement, repentance and intervention.

The second is the creation of a stage-set made up of spatial installations that invite those that frequent the boardwalk to experience various roles;

The “Innocent Bystander” sees and hears from a distance but may elect to walk on.

The Naiveté unsuspectingly wanders into the path that is the victim – the endpoint obscured by each turn until the path converges as a “plank” – and he/she is left standing alone under the domineering gaze of the perpetrators

The Egotist seduced by the glitz and cliché of the propaganda wall. Embarks upon a more deliberate path that widens as support is collected, peripheral view blinkered, fortified by heartless  post mobs until too confronted by victim’s vulnerability at arm’s reach

The Ethicist driven by higher consciousness rises the stair and sees all in perspective; enabling reflection and resolution  for change and intervention, a trail of moist footsteps from whence he came evaporating

Our entry drew upon consequences of genocides throughout history of mankind, and the message of peace and mercy, in moving forward. Perhaps understandably, it did not make it to the final selection.

Please visit our blog section for further commentary.

Our design aim is to reflect the magnanimity of CIC – a positive impression of a community that is welcoming of all members of the Muslim community, and in a controlled way, invites the wider community to approach, to participate and to interact.

We see the concept proposal as an oasis in a desert, offering hope and renewal that supplements one’s journey. In an oasis, every bit of resources is well managed; efficient water provision, layered tree planting to provides shades and filters wind.  It is a place where one wants to journey to, experience, refresh and enjoy.

In term of building form, an image of peeling bark of the eucalyptus tree in Australia bushland provides a clue. The peeling represents a natural process of renewal, providing layers of inside outside spaces in between to accommodate all the required functions. It is designed with Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in mind, encapsulating passive and active features that helps lower its carbon footprint. However, the true onus is on CIC to facilitate and manage the activities in the centre that reflects these intentions.