Unlimited Dimensions:
About This Project
Unlimited Dimensions: Digital Analysis of Jefferson and Palladio's Architecture uses 3D laser scanning technology to examine a selection of architectural works by Thomas Jefferson and Andrea Palladio. Our digital tools take on particular significance in the context of Jefferson, for the use of these tools underscores the value that Jefferson placed on Enlightenment thought and data collection. Jefferson adapted Palladian architecture as a means through which to express Enlightenment ideals of truth, reason, and learning, and as a symbol of democracy. Jefferson's only published book, Notes on the State of Virginia, exemplifies the practice of data collection. The digital technologies implemented in this project are an extension of Jefferson's original Enlightenment goals and serve as a continuation of his data collection endeavors.
Laser scanning functions as a contemporary approach to data collection, capturing billions of points of data with a precision unachievable and unimaginable in Jefferson’s time. By studying buildings with minute precision, we draw closer to Jefferson’s ideals and achieve a more complete understanding of the authority of nature and the power of reason. |
My Role
I first became involved in this project during my first semester at UVA, through Professor Andy Johnston and Will Rourk's Approaches to Digital Technologies course. I became deeply invested in the project, and continued working on it through two subsequent internships through the Scholars' Lab.
The project, Unlimited Dimensions: Digital Analysis of Jefferson and Palladio's Architecture, was initially intended to culminate in a dual-exhibition at UVA’s Rotunda and Italy’s Villa la Rotonda last spring. When the COVID-19 crisis halted these plans, we were faced with a variety of obstacles. I was hired in a paid capacity to continue this work over the summer (and during the 2020-2021 winter break), and worked with a Scholars’ Lab team to meaningfully archive the data and create a digital exhibition to present the work.
My contributions to this project fulfill the 60 hours of practicum requirements for the DH Certificate.
The project, Unlimited Dimensions: Digital Analysis of Jefferson and Palladio's Architecture, was initially intended to culminate in a dual-exhibition at UVA’s Rotunda and Italy’s Villa la Rotonda last spring. When the COVID-19 crisis halted these plans, we were faced with a variety of obstacles. I was hired in a paid capacity to continue this work over the summer (and during the 2020-2021 winter break), and worked with a Scholars’ Lab team to meaningfully archive the data and create a digital exhibition to present the work.
My contributions to this project fulfill the 60 hours of practicum requirements for the DH Certificate.