Presence Defined by Absence

I think that crates, especially crates designed for animals or pets are a good example of an object that has a presence defined by absence. It's a good example because without the empty spaces between the metal strips, the crate would just be a metal cube which isn't very suitable for a live animal.

Shape Animation

Reading Terminal Market

“Secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity”


The Reading Terminal Market
12^th and Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA, 19107


The Reading Terminal Market is a great expression of this quote because of its long history dedicated to serving not only the citizens of Philadelphia, but also the many visitors that flood its streets. The Reading Terminal Market has a 114 year old tradition of continuing to connect the urban setting of Philadelphia to many fresh agricultural products that can not be easily found within the city. This market is not just filled with food and produce, there are also many vendors that sell hand-made products like clothing, and other textile goods, useful products like cookware and other kitchen essentials, and some more gift-like goods like jewelry or fresh bouquets of flowers. Along with the other vendors selling fresh produce and meat, there are also many different restaurants that are spread throughout the market to choose from as a ready-made option. The market gives farmers, fishermen, craftsmen, and chefs the opportunity to exercise their independent right to run their own shops. Because of its long tradition and sense of freedom, I feel that the Reading Terminal Market is a great example of a Philadelphia landmark that embodies the idea of “securing our blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.”

Reading Response

In the passage about time management from Mary Stewart's book “Launching the Imagination: A Comprehensive Guide to Basic Design”, Stewart discusses how balance is a vital ingredient for staying healthy and reducing stress. In this section, Stewart explains that “A mix of emotional, spiritual, physical, and intellectual activities will help feed all areas of your psyche”. I also agree that in order to stay on top of the high amounts of work that goes along with school or jobs, it is most important to stay healthy, not only physically but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Without these ideas, we can not expect to be able to finish the work that is required and, at the same time, stay healthy and happy.