50 shades of celebration: an Indian cultural centre in Johannesburg

Abstract

This thesis is an attempt to ascertain that the identity of a culture is largely dependent on how that culture is represented. The identity and culture of the Indian people of Johannesburg is the primary focus of this dissertation.

The methods of representing this identity and culture are likened to a spectacle, the concept of which is greatly explored theoretically and thereafter, translated architecturally. This was achieved by exploring the idea of the spectacle in relation to experience. It further explores the definitions of spectacle and experience in an attempt to answer the real question of how to create a spectacle of experience through the use of architecture in order to educate and facilitate social cohesion by creating a cultural centre which encourages people of all races and creeds to participate, focusing on the Indian culture.

In order to create a program to suit the idea of cohesion, this dissertation investigated the theory of memory in architecture. Memory of place and people are intrinsic to understanding th importance of the Indian people of Johannesburg and why such a facility is of importance to the Indian people but also to other races and creeds.

This dissertation further wishes to highlight the importance of cultural preservation in South Africa. Whilst this project focuses on bringing a community closer through a facility that houses programme and activities indigenous to Indian South African people, the concept should be transferred to all other cultures. The architectural role is to allow space and place that allows for the transfer of knowledge and community.