Laura Jeary

Apprentice stonemason at York Minster & self-employed architectural designer
[email protected]

Placement organisation: Escuela de Arte Dionisio Ortiz (Cordoba)

Annie and I were set the task of making 1:10 scale models of a choza each. Mine was predominantly stone due to my interest in stone masonry. In effect we learnt how to build a choza exactly as they should be, just at a more manageable scale. In doing this and through talking to Rafael, we learnt a lot about this way of life and the history of chozas within Pedroches. The finished models will be permanently displayed at the Museo de Pastors in Villaralto.

In addition to this, I drew inspiration from the old city and it’s Islamic roots, to create a design for a sculpture which I made using a traditional plaster carving technique typical to this area.

Throughout my time in Cordoba I was particularly interested in traditional crafts in general, and met many of the craftsmen and women who work within the city. I also spoke to and observed many students who are currently learning these crafts within the college.

I was also drawn to the presence and importance of water within the city. The sculptural fountains which are found in many of the squares provide waymarkers; useful for orientation, but most importantly of all somehow the presence of moving water creates a natural gathering point. Informal outdoor gatherings seem to be an intrinsic part of the social culture and character of Cordoba.