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Disintegration of Gallows in Black and White: a Commentary on Societal Persecution

Authors:
Yiping Zhang, Yukun Wu
Disintegration of Gallows in Black and White: a Commentary on Societal Persecution

Project in-detail

Rooted in the concept of naraka, the design captures the disintegration of gallows through a sequence of panels, using black and white imagery to evoke a stark commentary on societal persecution and enduring prejudice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Panels depict the disintegration of gallows, emphasizing historical narratives.
02
Black and white imagery contrasts societal rejection with themes of suffering.
03
Inspired by the Buddhist concept of naraka, enhancing the project's depth.
04
Combines visual storytelling with critical commentary on persecution.
05
Encourages reflection on contemporary issues of prejudice and fear.

The project titled *The Gallows Fall into Naraka* explores the themes of historical and contemporary witch hunts through its design. It is rooted in the concept of naraka, a Buddhist perspective on hell, where sinners are bound and face disintegration. The gallows serve as a potent symbol of societal rejection and the collective suffering stemming from prejudice and fear. This exploration encourages reflection on the emotional aspects of these historical narratives and their relevance today.

Conceptual Framework

At the heart of the design, a series of panels illustrate the gradual disintegration of gallows. Each panel represents a different stage in this breakdown, emphasizing both loss and the lasting impact of historical injustices. This visual narrative draws attention to the emotional weight of past events and invites consideration of their relevance in modern society.

Imagery and Visual Impact

The visual elements used in this project are direct and confrontational, engaging observers with the themes presented. The gallows act as metaphors for persecution, revealing the roles of jealousy, fear, and the rejection of those deemed different. Such imagery compels viewers to confront the ongoing realities of violence and discrimination, issues that resonate across cultures and time periods.

Cultural and Philosophical Dimensions

The design is further enriched by references to Buddhist thought, providing a deeper context for the historical narratives it addresses. This inclusion prompts reflection on moral and ethical responsibilities in the face of societal injustices. It creates space for engagement with complex themes while encouraging a critical view of past and present human actions.

The detailed depiction of the gallows and their state of decay enhances the connection between the viewer and the historical context. By drawing attention to the fragile nature of human constructs, the design reinforces its message about the enduring consequences of societal behavior.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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