Domain Reading Response

I would title the black and white image of a forest a “multi-layered, natural domain”. There are a couple different layers to this domain: first, the domain of the forest as a whole in relationship to the larger scale area; and second, the domain of the levels shown in the image created by areas that have different physical spaces defined by height and size. For example, if I were to inhabit the multi-layered, natural domain, I would climb the tree on the far left of the image. This would give me a vantage point, as well as shroud me a bit in the leaves of the tree. This would allow me to see what is around me better, and possibly see if anything is coming near me before it realizes. The domain that I would be accessing/creating would be that of the branches and trunk of the tree. The tree domain could possible extend to other trees surrounding it if I could reach them, and if other creatures were not occupying them.  This could be compared to other possible domains in the image, such as atop a rock, on the ground in between the rocks, on the bare, open ground, etc.

For my personal, chosen domain, I selected an area of my apartment I often sit in. The domain itself, which I shall call the “nook domain” sits at the far end of my apartment ( that I share with two roommates) off of the living room. I define this domain first as a nook, because it is a narrow-shaped area with a window on one end, and a narrow angled ceiling that meets in a peak shape. Because the ceiling slopes at a more extreme angle, it cuts off a large portion of headspace for someone walking through it, encouraging one to sit down. This is similar to the concept displayed in the “Men’s House” in Dogon villages, where the ceilings are intentionally low, causing everyone to stay seated during meetings (Lavine 33). The cozy, nook domain is characterized strongly by quite a few element.  The book shelf protruding into the space encourages one to sit as it further blocks head space in the area. The window is only at eye-level if sitting in the chair, which due to the apartment being on the third floor, overlooks a street. All of the walls and ceiling of the space have half circles of moulding, creating spherical, soft forms on the surrounding walls near ones face in the nook, softening the sharper edges of the peaked ceiling. This idea is suggested in the Rasmussen reading as well: “Nevertheless it is impossible to rid yourself of something that was kneaded and moulded.. acquiring the form of winding curves… (Rasmussen 22). There are a variety of pieces of furniture blocking passage to the space as well, a nightstand, chairs, mini fridge, and beanbag. These items create a barrier to the chair and window, and when in the chair, make one feel protected, and secluded from the rest of the public living domain. These items, along with the thinning of space off the living room, first to the corner where the minifridge is, and then further tapers to the window, add to the separation of this domain from the living room.