Dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment in compliance with the requirements for the Masters Degree in Technology: Fine Art, Durban University of Technology, 2013. / This paper documents and evaluates the use of ceramics as an aesthetic architectural element in
Durban from 1914-2012 with special reference to James Hall (1916-2006), Andrew Walford (b.1942)
and Jane du Rand (b.1969). These artists were selected because their work demonstrates a wide
range of the use of decorative tiles and mosaics as aesthetic elements in Durban architecture over a
period of more than fifty years. Reference is made to the historical use of tiles and mosaics as
aesthetic architectural elements in Durban from 1914-1955 in order to provide a context to an
investigation and evaluation of the contribution of Hall, Walford and du Rand to the use of tiles and
mosaics as an aesthetic architectural element in Durban.
The paper begins by highlighting the importance of this study, discusses the role of ceramic
architectural adornment and defines terminology for the purpose of this research. In addition an
explanation of the research methodology used, research questions and literature review is provided.
The study is contextualised through an overview of the historical background of the use of ceramics
(tiles and mosaics) as an aesthetic element in architecture. The importance of the use of ceramic
elements in relation to architecture, as well as the different techniques and methods of production, are
highlighted and related to contemporary practice. The overview provides insight into how the use of
ceramic elements in the past has influenced the approach of contemporary practice.
My contribution to the use of mosaics as an aesthetic architectural element in Durban and my art
practice, in the form of an installation titled passage is discussed and evaluated.
The paper concludes by noting that the historical use of tiles and mosaics as aesthetic elements in
architecture persists in contemporary art practice. However, the methods of tiled mosaic production
and tiled mosaic techniques have been revolutionised extensively.
It is evident that, the use of ceramics as an aesthetic element in Durban architecture reflects, both a
strong European design influence and a distinctive local identity. / Durban University of Technology Postgraduate Development and Support Directorate
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:dut/oai:localhost:10321/945 |
| Date | 04 December 2013 |
| Creators | Padaruth, Raksha |
| Contributors | Starkey, Anthony Roland |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | 168 p |
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