Energy Sites - Yallourn Master of Architecture Architecture MADA Now 2022

Frazer Spence

Protection + Defence is a story of hidden biases within the mining system. Governed by rules of masculinity and the heteronormative man, these spaces are restricted by traditional values that leave many on the periphery. of persecution in mining economies lend disaffection with the minority communities that support this industry. The project aims to confront this past by presenting a future where Loy Yang Power Station has been annexed by queer communities within Victoria, and defended using a series of art installations that cripple and removes sense of self. Defened, these interventions provide a sanctuary for queer people, in a place formerly excluded to them through violence.

Exterior View of an Annexed Power Station

Exploring the relationship between queerness and mining offers contradictions of identity and character. Visiting the site showed a respectful connection between the power station and Traralgon, with both quietly ignoring each other’s presence. After commandeering the power station, this connection shifts and lends greater visual challenge to the people of the town. Demanding attention, this new queer presence provides division and rebuke. The connection is demonstrated by the people inside and outside of the wall, observing each other’s next move.

Ground Plan and Associated Diagrams

The internal design follows a grid structure to define the defences and internal sanctuary. Whilst regular, this system can’t be discerned on the group from any immediate entry points. These internal habitations are all communal. The concept of individuality is nurtured in this space but with a keen understanding on the health of the unit. To survive in this stronghold requires strong emotional ties to community. The sanctuary places an emphasis on art, noting the design contains a library, performance spaces and vegetates areas. As a graphic tool within the plan, all new additions are cut with pink; a running theme through the drawings.

Defence System and Spaces

The hall consists of Entry Points, Preliminary Defensive Mechanisms and Secondary Defences. Each system bleeds into another and forms a process of reticulation, preventing intrusion into the sanctuary. Protection + Defence uses art as a tool to disorient those who enter malevolently. Drawing from artistic examples by Alicja Kwade, Carston Holler, Anthony Gormley and James Turrell, these spaces stop penetration through fear, confusion and dissociation.

Atmospherics

How one would feel intruding and residing within the Power Station. Top Left: Inside the Ganzfeld self-perception is lost. Top right: The dark maze-like tunnels play sounds to disturb the soul. Screaming and pain fill this space. Bottom left: The kitchen of the sanctuary. Illuminated to centre on queer identity and expression. A place of freedom. Bottom Right: Mirrored walls and out of place terrain illuminate the failings of those trying to hurt innocent people.

Perspective Section

Short perspective section through the sanctuary and retarding spaces of the project.

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