Final reflection - Process

With Podcast

My fascination with Gothic architecture has been deeply rooted from a young age. This interest, sparked by my mother's affinity for Gothic aesthetics and her love for medieval media like Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings, has cultivated a profound appreciation for this exquisite form of art. Unlike typical vacations that involve visits to Disney World, my family always prioritized exploring massive cathedrals and churches, delving into their rich history and evolution.

When I embarked on this project, my goal was to independently uncover Gothic architecture's historical backgrounds and evolutions—a delightful blend of my passion for historical research and one of my favorite art styles. I incorporated my love for Lego into the project to add a personal touch.

For the initial phase, I contemplated a significant piece of Gothic architecture- the school's church- that held sentimental value for me. Having spent considerable time there, I felt a strong connection, making it an ideal subject for my project. Struggling with the Lego design initially, I sought help from a fellow Lego enthusiast whom I had met through a shared interest in Funko pops. With his assistance in creating the church's floor plan to the correct scale, I started my daily grind, working tirelessly for over four months—both in class and at home—seeking constructive criticism and tips to refine my creation.

My commitment and perseverance paid off when I reached a point of satisfaction with the Lego model. The next step involved ordering the necessary pieces with Mr. Todd and preparing for the physical challenges and enjoyment ahead.

During the Lego Grace Church's design phase, I stayed after chapel one day, meticulously photographing every corner of the church. This endeavor led to a chance encounter with Mr. Harry Krauss, a clergyman and historian of Grace. Intrigued by my project, he generously offered his expertise, guiding me through multiple meetings and providing valuable sources to enrich the historical research aspect of my work.

After completing the research phase, I distilled my findings into multiple essays that became a source of pride. 

The physical building took five months to complete. Devoting an average of six hours a day, five days a week, I immersed myself in the creative process, documenting the journey with a timeline of photos featured on my website. This proved to be one of the project's most challenging aspects, as translating virtual builds into reality posed difficulties. Some virtual models didn’t work in real life, but it was pretty much building a Lego set, as the software I built provides AI-generated instructions.

My project holds significance and excitement for enthusiasts due to its exploration of the architectural history of some of the world's most impressive structures. Its uniqueness and extraordinary nature will captivate audiences, particularly those interested in Catholic architecture and the Lego building. The positive response from my Lego mentor, who even showcased the project on his selling website, is a testament to its exceptional quality and appeal. I am immensely proud of the culmination of my efforts and eagerly anticipate sharing it with others.