Aliza Shapiro, AIR 2003

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Aliza Shapiro and Brent Zeigler form POD LAB, a collaborative design group that finds creative solutions for program needs through research, investigation, experimentation, and practice. POD LAB will spend eight weeks as Research Partners in the Berwick’s Artist in Research Program. They are studying the Berwick’s diverse spatial and programmatic requirements in order to create a design for its exhibition space and office that will delight and deliver to its artists, producers, administrators and audience.

Shapiro, an architectural designer by day and producer (www.truthserum.org), Drag King and rabble-rouser by night is familiar with the Berwick’s unique needs through producing her own shows within its walls. Together with Brent Zeigler, an architectural designer who has designed numerous retail, restaurant, corporate and institutional projects, POD LAB will be working in the AIR studio making models, scribbling on napkins, dreaming up the collapsible and the inflatable to accommodate all ilk of artist and producer.

It’s no small feat to create a space that can contain a community of artists who’s work extends to sound, electronics, variety shows, installation, orchestral compositions, lectures and roller-derbies. POD LAB’s residency culminates in the presentation of a flexible, transformable, multi-functional and aesthetically inspiring design that will encourage the Berwick’s artists, producers, audience and the Berwick staff to work unbound by the constraints of its 4 walls.

Join POD LAB and the Berwick in exploring their creative process during their open studio event. Trace where concepts originated and where they ended up. On display on June 6, the necessary and beautiful detritus of a design lab: early sketch models, spatial and conceptual diagrams, master planning, full sized details, text references, and materials. See how POD LAB conceptualized the Berwick’s needs and created inspired solutions for their unique role in housing all aspects of the arts. Plus POD LAB’s favorite foods, drinks (Aliza is thinking bubble tea+sushi) and music by a surprise guest.