The Architecture of Khoj in its neutrality allows for all kinds of interesting provocations. Our attempt is to engage with the subtle façade of the building and propose a transient unique identity to its entrance. We propose to create an experience of the history of Khoj and the day-to-day interaction of the people and community the institution caters to. Since 1997, what has transpired via the institution and currently occurs within its spaces becomes our point of intervention.

Our enquiry starts as a physical trace of the façade’s metal exoskeleton and its projection on the enclosing exterior walls. We mark points to trace the entrance void created by the metal exoskeleton. These points are woven together with brightly colored nylon strings such that the perceived cuboidal space is simultaneously defined and disrupted. This physical trace of the entrance void becomes a repository for attaching found and new materials such as metal tubes, OHP sheets etc.; bought and gathered from the Khirki village. The final physical traces get notated to trace the history of Khoj as people move through and interact with the sculpture they are also encouraged to leave their traces (write/ notate) on the hanging pieces. The hanging pieces act like a large-scale wind-chime; the play of light and shadow with the strings and the colorful OHP sheets creates an ephemeral Kaleidoscopic effect in the space – akin to the stained glass lit up interiors of churches and old havelis.

The density and scale of the hanging strings not only visualizes the void- but makes the person wading through it, bodily sense the space by way of touch. The final sculpture becomes an interactive sensory experience of the history and day- to-day interactions of Khoj with its community.