OfficeUS, Bullets Without Ideology - Venice Biennale 2014, United States Pavilion
Brick-à-porter
With the end of the Venice Biennale approaching, we envision the last week as a prelude to future exhibitions and iterations of the OfficeUS experiment globally. Responding to the temporary and mobile nature of the post-biennale methodological structure of OfficeUS, while also reflecting on the theme of Bullets Without Ideologies, we sought to create a representative module of OfficeUS, an element that transcends its original purpose and becomes a prototypical entity to be replicated in various settings.
This module is derived from the simplest element of construction, the brick. The design of the module adopts the OfficeUS logo and adapts it to its connection points: the U and S become the joints through which different configurations and assemblies of the brick can take shape. While the brick remains an iconic representative of the OfficeUS brand, its assembly into different types of urban furniture or architectural objects makes use of its functionality as a strictly structural element.
Using the 3D printer on site, the partners and collaborators of OfficeUS will be able to print as many bricks as needed and create impromptu structures in the courtyard depending on the moment’s needs and desires. These bricks can also be given to the visitors as souvenirs from the Biennale. The latter becomes the catalyst of a process in which people will be directly involved with the recreation of the OfficeUS experience
around the world. While the structures can be dismantled, allowing the bricks to travel the world to be reassembled elsewhere, one can also consider distributing the 3D model of the brick under a free license of use, in order for it to be printed without limits. The module, in this way, not only transcends ideologies but also materiality and geographical relevance.
