Hill of the Arts

Human history reveals a pervasive focus on survival strategies and class-based disparities, fostering a collective ambition that drives individuals in their relentless pursuit of dominance. Aristotle's assertion that excellence is a cultivated habit – that we become what we repeatedly do – highlights the necessity of diligent effort to achieve greatness, transforming it into a routine. This process, while requiring considerable wisdom, carries inherent consequences. The ingrained habit becomes integral to one's identity, ultimately shaping collective behavior and contributing to a global phenomenon of individual striving for supremacy. To create, one must delve into their inner depths. A creative mind must be free from worldly ambitions and desires. The principle of the Simplicity of Being is the ultimate path to this freedom. Only when released from earthly distractions can one truly create. Nature, in all its glory and imperfection, is a masterpiece of art. It is a privilege to witness an artist become their own artwork, selflessly inspiring others. Harmony with nature allows one to embrace their inner world. Artistic pursuit is the pursuit of happiness; art, regardless of its origins, reflects its creator's true self, driven by a passion for the unknown. Breaking boundaries expands vision and reveals what lies beyond.
Location
Italy
City
Turin
Area
4000 m2
Year
2020
Status
Design

Architecture, in its expansive scope, integrates engineering principles with artistic expression, enabling its creators to evoke a wide range of responses. The synthesis of purpose and aesthetic experience represents a pinnacle of human achievement. The interplay of beauty and functionality further bridges the seemingly disparate realms of commercial and artistic endeavors, traditionally considered mutually exclusive. However, architecture offers solutions that elegantly unify these aspects, achieving a harmonious balance. The current climate necessitates innovative thinking. Rapid advancements across all sectors demand a parallel commitment to fostering moments of reflection and rejuvenation. While slowing down should be inherently effortless, the ubiquitous access to information, intense global competition, and pervasive hyper-connectivity render the idealized global village somewhat undesirable.

Consequently, individuals seek respite. However, this escape proves unexpectedly challenging; the modern era presents a different, yet equally burdensome, set of challenges.

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Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

The idea is to establish a select, geographically isolated community of like-minded individuals in a naturally secluded environment. This will foster exploration of individual expression, potentially leading to a shared collective identity and, ultimately, a culture of artistic devotion. While this resembles the creation of a new religion, the suggestion is to further enhance artistic freedom and raise creative standards to elevate the overall experience. The core concept is a return to fundamental principles. Villa Altissimo, possessing a rich historical and cultural heritage, provides an ideal setting for a retreat catering to those seeking respite from the demands of modern life. Its secluded nature makes it perfectly suited to function as an artistic retreat for both artists and art enthusiasts, appreciating both the finished artwork and the creative process. The design is inspired by the cave – humanity's first shelter, offering protection and serving as the first art gallery, showcasing early human discoveries in a new light. This inherent sense of security, the feeling of home, fosters freedom essential for worship, creation, and artistic representation. The cave thus exemplifies the initial integration of shelter and artistic expression, making it a fitting model for a contemporary, exclusive, community-based hotel for artists and art lovers.

To optimize the creative process, artist studios are strategically situated within pre-existing, linearly arranged alcoves. These studios are enclosed on three sides to foster a tranquil atmosphere conducive to artistic creation. The open fourth side offers viewers a compelling perspective, allowing them to observe, engage with, and uniquely experience the artistic process. The micro-urban design integrates artistic and commercial elements, including wellness and spa facilities and a restaurant, to foster a holistic experience. New structures, planned for multiple levels, will enhance connectivity and revitalize the entire resort. Existing architecture, rich historical and cultural heritage, and naturally occurring artistic elements are fundamental to this concept. Integrated with new content and structures, they revitalize the area. The „architecture of mirrors“ principle adds depth to the existing spatial components. Artists, patrons, and users alike are empowered to utilize the space as a canvas, sculpture, or instrument, expressing themselves uniquely. Mirrors reflect the newly created art, enhancing its visibility and impact.

The Art of the Simplicity of Being, often overlooked in the pursuit of progress, represents humanity's inherent potential and mastery of stillness. The relentless pursuit of future milestones often overshadows appreciation for past achievements. It is time for humanity to pause, and this location provides the ideal setting for reflection: Simply Be.

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Gallery

Credits

Architect
NRA Atelier
Project Lead
Nikola Radović
Authors
Nikola Radović, Sonja Milićević, Nina Simović, Jovan Balandžić, Danilo Đurišić, Miloš Popović
Copyright
NRA Atelier