The playground suggests innocence of the new participants, or perhaps childishness or naivetë, yet the seriousness of this revenant redoubt and the hallowed regard for the ground on which the blood of its sentinels was shed present a contrast we will contemplate as our conversation develops. It invites visions of flickering movies in black and gray, of cobwebs brushing past a viewer exploring an abandoned monument of ancient, fallen civilization, building anticipation of the loosing of violent, destructive forces, of Lovecraftian Old Ones, who upon release will tear asunder our heretofore placid world. What in our heritage leads us to seek that ubermensch who will shutter the Evil One in its pit? Who in post-modern society expects any remnant to straggle forth and follow our hero in his quest?
Well, with that heavy and abstract intro concluded by two questions unanswerable in a reasonable post, let's segue into places where we can seek these answers at greater length. One opportunity is found in gatherings such as those conducted by a local singer and writer called Christopher, Philosopher. He offers monthly discussions on topics of importance to our society. Another remnant is found exalting often neglected fine artists who seek to advance a moral position through positive expression. The Foundation for Community Arts is a group of Christians strengthening select communities by encouraging those fine artists whose works inspire the human heart.
Physical construction of Assembly spaces such as temples, synagogues and churches are ecclesiastical and may be considered sacred by occupants as well as neighbors. Assemblies of a civic nature tend not to be sacred, yet a chautauqua or fine art gallery tends to get rather close to sacred, out of expectation of wonder within context of creativity - upon entering, visitors usually utter quiet, or hushed, conversation, so as not to disturb those who wish silent concentration, as within one's spirit, allowing artists to "speak" to them through artworks. I raise a question: Can public assembly architecture for the purposes of fine art displays and community meeting rooms, without a direct or symbolic connection to the ecclesiastical, assume a legitimate sense of reverence and awe? The Foundation for Community Arts seeks such a structure within or near Doraville. What should it's architecture project publicly?
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