MSA Stage 4 School of Architecture
Anna Tankard
Hi, I’m Anna. I am a Stage 4 architecture student at the Mackintosh School of Architecture, with a passion for storytelling through visual expression and contemporary culture.
My work combines architecture, graphic design, and print, where structure meets narrative and identity takes shape. This year, I’ve been diving deeper into graphic communication, using my architectural background as a foundation for exploring digital media, layout, and the crafted detail of print. I’m excited by design that speaks, informs, and leaves a visual mark.
I’m currently exploring opportunities to grow within the creative industries, with a particular interest in junior creative roles or supporting creative/art direction. My background in architecture has given me a strong foundation in spatial design and visual storytelling, and I’m now looking to apply that to work that intersects with music, branding, and events.
Contact
Why Am I Dancing in a Warehouse?
This research project explores the architectural, cultural, and political significance of rave and dance venues across the UK, focusing on how these spaces function as spaces of identity, resistance, and community for marginalised groups. Within the past four years, the UK has seen an alarming 480+ night-time and club closures. This project explores how gentrification, policy neglect, and cultural erasure are contributing to the closure of grassroots music spaces.
Drawing from historical and contemporary case studies, the research explores the cyclical nature of rave culture, from illegal warehouse raves to temporary liminal spaces that echo the anti-establishment values the culture was born out of. These spaces, often found in disused industrial areas, create spaces of anonymity, safety, and freedom, particularly for LGBTQ+, Black, and minority communities.
The work, both analytical and personal, weaves in personal experience of grassroots venues and rave experiences to highlight how these spaces foster genuine connection outside of mainstream. Showing the importance of creating moments of shared euphoria rooted in solidarity, music, and spatial intimacy.
Ultimately, the research project argues for a renewed recognition of rave venues not just as entertainment sites but as vital cultural infrastructure. It calls for an architectural and urban response that preserves, supports, and reimagines smaller, adaptable, and community-led venues that serve those often pushed to the margins of city life.
You can read the full project here:
Project Links
Glasgow Film Institute: Framing the Future
The Urban Building project, in response to the Stage 4 Living in Agreement theme, proposes a new Glasgow Film Institute, a public building in the heart of Glasgow that extends and reimagines the role of Film City Glasgow as a cultural, educational, and industry hub. Film City Glasgow’s established presence in Govan is the foundation for this project. Upon visiting the client in Govan, we gained insight into the wide range of careers, and design creatives behind the film industry and the overwhelming love for film, education and the want to educate.
Architecture has the ability to shape the way in which we live our lives, design is an expression of culture, and adapts to the needs of the people who inhabit each space. Through my design, I aim to foster collaboration through workshops and adaptable open spaces. Having the space that moulds to the needs of the time helps create inclusive, meaningful spaces. By providing spaces that inspire and educate, such as libraries, working hubs and creating a balance of communal and quiet areas, we can help the next generations be inspired by a range of opportunities. An institution that is accessible for anyone, regardless of background, economic or social status, is vital for our ever-changing cities. This could be done through a variety of ways, such as locally funded workshops, for younger people or communities that don’t always get such opportunities. Even by hosting events, to bring like-minded people together, communities build and support the arts and creative industries. Through design, I aim to respond to the local and industry culture, all spaces will be inclusive and provide accessible resources to celebrate film, cinema and the industries that create and are vital parts of the films we know and love. Local talent, artists, and filmmakers will be able to use these spaces and showcase their work, as well as gain inspiration and knowledge through other artists and designers.
The aim of the Institute is to provide spaces for collaboration, learning, and production while strengthening the city’s infrastructure. We are encouraged to carefully consider volumetric relationships, materiality and spatial atmosphere. The design brief looks to create a space that balances the practical needs of the film industry and civic ambition.
In addition to this the design should aim to be an open, inclusive space where creative freedom and film are the tools for connection, ambition and public exchange.
Fostering Collaboration
Additional Design Works
In addition to my academic projects, I designed a range of posters as the event coordinator for MASS (Mackintosh Architecture Student Society), promoting, curating and hosting events. I also created commissioned poster works and self-initiated designs to further develop my digital graphic design skills, experimenting with layout, typography, and branding across various styles and audiences.
