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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

The rapid economic development of the Philippines' creative economy sector,

the municipality of Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan included, needs to be maximized and

supported. When combined with thoughtful urban planning, architecture can create

destinations, contribute to community identity, and foster connections between people

and the places they share. This research embarks on an exploration of the

conceptualization and design of an art hub in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan, Philippines a

dedicated space that aspires not only to nurture artistic expression but also to serve as

a catalyst for cultural enrichment and community engagement. To ensure the fulfillment

in Sta. Barbara in the coming years, rational land use management plans for all the

identified development areas should be operationalized and urban design guidelines

should likewise be promoted and adopted. They are expected to promote a well-

planned development, oriented towards the achievement of social, economic,

infrastructure, environmental, and institutional goals.

These urban design guidelines are aimed at achieving the physical

development goal of creating a contemporary mixed urban growth concept to foster a

“sense of place” adaptive to Sta. Barbara. Through thoughtful design, the Modern Art

Hub project will prioritize the seamless integration of spaces, aesthetics, and

functionality. The research is based on architectural analysis, which includes

environmental relations, relations between the building and the site, and also the

facade composition combining historical and modern parts.

1.1 Background of the Study

Located at the heart of Sta. Barbara is located on a flat terrain in the northern

part of the Agno Valley in Pangasinan's center. is an area distinguished by its Physical

and Land Use Development, which focuses on infrastructure projects that will support

economic and social governance. Recognizing the opportunities for sustainable

development and raising environmental awareness.

The art hub's main goal is to provide a creative space for local artists to

showcase their work, to educate the youth, to promote cultural exchange, to offer art-

related workshops and events that are open to the public, to interact and appreciate

creative people. This hub aims to promote artistic expression, support emerging

students, creative people of all ages, particularly the youth, and engage the general

public in appreciating and participating in various forms of art. It could also serve as a

forum for collaboration, networking, and the preservation of local heritage through

artistic endeavor. The art hub can provide a wide range of services and opportunities to

artists and the community, creating a vibrant and enriching experience.

Artists use studio spaces to work and create their art. Galleries or exhibition

spaces where artists can present their work to the public. Organizing art workshops,

classes, and training sessions to improve artistic abilities and knowledge. Providing

opportunities for artists to participate in residencies, which promotes creativity and

collaboration. Art-related events, such as art fairs, competitions, open studios, and

cultural festivals, are organized to engage the community. Providing mentorship

programs or opportunities for emerging artists to learn from more experienced

professionals.
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1.2 Statement of the Problem

Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan, Philippines, and like many other communities may

have areas that could be improved. Adequate infrastructure, such as roads, public

transportation, and healthcare facilities, is one of the most common aspects that

communities lack.

1. What accessibility and inclusivity considerations were made in the Art Hub's

architectural design to ensure that it serves a diverse range of community

members?

2. What features and amenities should be included in the plan to create a versatile

space that encourages cultural and social engagement, supports business

initiatives, and promotes tourism while remaining accessible to both locals and

visitors?

3. How does the Art Hub's spatial layout promote interactions and engagement

between community members and visiting artists?

4. What are the challenges in effectively harnessing and promoting a sense of

community and creativity among Sta. Barbara residents?

5. In what way can an Art hub Center help the neighborhood improve quality of life

while preserving the environment?

1.3 Objective of the Study

The study intends to achieve the following objectives, prioritizing the main goal

is to maintain relevance and practicality.

1. Architectural design includes wheelchair-accessible entrances and pathways,

wide doorways, elevators, open spaces for easy movement. These features

ensure that the facility is inclusive and serves a diverse range of community

members effectively.

2. To create a versatile space that encourages cultural engagement, the plan

should include multi-purpose event spaces, accessible facilities, local cafés and

family-friendly amenities.

3. The spatial layout promotes interactions and engagement by featuring open and

flexible spaces for informal gatherings, dedicated areas for workshops, this

design fosters collaboration and cultural exchange between community

members and visiting artists.

4. Some challenges in promoting a sense of community and creativity among Sta.

Barbara residents include diverse interests, resource limitations, engagement

barriers, space constraints, and generational gaps.

5. It can improve neighborhood quality of life by using eco-friendly materials,

promoting sustainable practices, and hosting events focused on environmental

awareness. This approach enhances community well-being while preserving the

environment.
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1.4 Framework of the Study

The study will benefit not only locals and architecture students, but also other

undergraduate students and researchers interested in learning about and researching

the preservation of local culture and traditions. Evaluate the art hub's social, economic,

and cultural impact on the community and its inhabitants. The building design of the

proposed project is defined by applying the following:

Principles for Creative Spaces

o Embed authentic design elements and materiality

o Design for comfortable proximity to others and content

o Include integrated technology for rapid explorations

o Offer posture options for different work modes

Design Principles

The proposed art hub will apply design principles that center on basic guidelines

or concepts that guide the creation of functional and visually appealing designs in a

variety of fields, such as architecture, user experience design, and others.

Site Considerations

The proposed project's construction site should have environmental

characteristics that are suitable for the project. As a recreation researcher, the chosen

location should be suitable for the amenities and other structures outlined in the

project. Furthermore, for the benefit of both the environment and users. During the

planning and design process, physical characteristics such as environmental

conditions, topography, site dimensions, and the landscape within the location will be

indicated.
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1.4.1 Theoretical Framework

1. Creative Placemaking

Creative People and Artisans serve an essential part in improving people by

initiating place-based creative initiatives that alter not only the aesthetics of place, but

also the aesthetics of belonging. Current models of creative placemaking are linked to

the built environment and urban renewal. Ann Markusen and Anne Gadwa (2010)

define creative placemaking as "partnerships with the public, private, non-profit, and

community sectors to strategically shape the economic, physical, and social

characteristics of a place through arts and cultural activities.

"Creative placemaking enlivens public and private spaces, revitalizes structures

and streetscapes, boosts local business viability and public safety, and brings diverse

people together to celebrate, inspire, and be inspired." (p.3). The goal of creative

placemaking is to advance people through artistic initiatives that result in healthy,

resilient communities. Creative placemaking is a movement of artists, designers,

cultural groups, and arts organizations that move beyond their silos and into their

communities. (Markusen and Gadwa, 2010).

Through artist-led civic engagement activities, we can address the root causes

of social inequity. Artists create arts-based initiatives that fully engage and empower a

community's ability to express its distinct cultural identity through its physical

environment.

Webb D. 3(1), 35-48 Placemaking and Social Equity: Expanding the Framework

of Creative Placemaking
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2. Social Learning Theory

Albert Bandura's theory, introduced in 1960, is based on the premise that

learning takes place within a social and natural framework, emphasizing the dynamic

interaction of the individual, the environment, and behavior. According to the theory,

behavioral changes are influenced by prior experiences, and individuals may be

unaware of societal issues, resulting in a disconnect between personal attitudes and

advocacy.

The theory assumes that increased awareness of historical roots and heritage

can lead to greater appreciation. Behavioral change is influenced by environmental,

personal, and behavioral factors, each of which has an impact on the others.

Furthermore, the environment influences behavior, which affects mental and emotional

well-being. The theory emphasizes the reciprocal nature of these factors and proposes

their role in determining behavioral changes.

3. Location Theory

This helps to better understand important current issues and develop plans to

meet social needs and/or promote economic growth. It underpins effective emergency

response plans such as locating hospitals, fire stations, warning sirens, and so on.

Location theory also allows for the evaluation and exploration of competitive services

before deciding where to locate the business or outlet. For example, how will a market

for a specific good respond if a new business opens in a specific location, and how will

competitors react? Finally, location theory is useful in examining environmental

sustainability issues, such as minimizing local impacts and determining how many

activities (or species) are viable in a given area.

1.4.2 Conceptual Framework

This study proposes a conceptual framework integrating modern design,

considerations and creative expression to foster innovative spatial narratives.

Figure 1: Conceptual Framework

1.5 Scope and Limitations

The study focuses on finding a link between the various aspects of the location

by addressing the issue of the scarcity of creative spaces other than art museums in

lesser-known areas of the Philippines. It could also be a lack of awareness and

visibility, which would limit its ability to attract a diverse range of artists and community

members. Limited access to training and educational resources for aspiring artists and

creatives may also limit the hub's ability to cultivate talent and facilitate skills

development. Furthermore, navigating bureaucratic processes and regulatory

requirements, as well as dealing with potential competition or saturation in the local

creative industry, could pose new challenges for a creative space in the Philippines.

Furthermore, outsiders' interpretations and oversimplifications of Filipino public

culture can influence how artists and their work are perceived, potentially leading to

misunderstandings and misrepresentations in the art world. These issues add to the

multifaceted challenges that visual artists in the Philippines face, limiting their ability to

thrive and gain recognition both locally and internationally.

The project may face funding and financial sustainability challenges, particularly

in obtaining long-term support and resources for operations and programming.

Additionally, infrastructure issues, such as access to appropriate spaces and facilities,

may impede the development and expansion of creative hubs. Cultural barriers and

varying levels of community engagement may also have an impact on how effective a

creative hub is at fostering collaboration and creativity among diverse groups of

people.
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1.6 Significance of the Study

This study examines the significance of modern art hubs as creative spaces,

focusing on a Modern Art Hub as a Multi-Purpose Creative Space in Sta. Barbara,

Pangasinan. It investigates the hub's impact on local artists, communities and the

economy, providing insights for policymakers and art administrators.

Educational Institutions

This study will educate local universities/college students who are interested in

arts, design, and cultural studies students. Also, high school students interested in arts

and culture. And workshop participants Individuals attending art workshops and

classes.

Local Stakeholders

This study will serve as a reference for local artists and artisans such as

painters, sculptors, woodcarvers, weavers, and craftspeople. Traditional craftsman,

such as, potters, and textile makers. And small-scale entrepreneurs with local business

owners selling handmade products. Centering with the architecturally appealing

design, symbolizing the municipality’s progress.

Future Researchers
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This study might serve as valuable reference for future researchers on creative

placemaking theory and art hubs, providing practical ideas for designing facilities that

aim to revitalize communities.