A New Manifesto

Hope is the belief in a positive outcome for the future. In times of hardship and strife, in times where the outlook seems bleak, it is hope that humanity holds on to and hope which gives the strength to persevere.  The history of the Howard Smith Wharves site is one which embodies the hopes of the Brisbane community, from the wharves themselves which were built through an employment initiative toward the end of the Great Depression, to the air-raid shelters which represent hope during impending invasion, the idea of community hope is prevalent. This community came together during times of hardship and found hope in each other, and le Danse de L’espoir represents the coming together of the community.

The Dance School is influenced by its site, but set apart from it- its fluid, sculptural, curved aesthetic is in juxtaposition with the rigid, linear forms around it, setting it apart.  The structures at the Howard Smith Wharves are all industrial forms built from basic materials, but their purpose inspired hope amongst their community. Similarly, the materials chosen- glass, rusted iron, concrete- are industrial, but their form is sculptural and beautiful, symbolising this dichotomy. The individual materials give respect to the site- the concrete of the air-raid shelters, the steel of the story bridge and the wharves, and glass to represent the water of the Brisbane River.

The form of Danse de L’espoir represents the coming together of the community through its extensive sculptural elements in the terrace which joins the two buildings.  The theatre is designed to be somewhat shaded, while the school building receives sunlight which filters through the folds and gaps within the façade.  The façade hugs the building as a protective cover and provides connection between the buildings, similarly hope comforts and joins together communities during hardship. Despite this exterior, the building is open and accessible to the public, due to a pedestrian path which bisects it, and a café and amenities which draw people.  The program of the building also engages the community- it is not only a school, but a centre which can be booked by community groups and the general public to present their own performances and express their creativity.