The theory is divided into multiple sections that are connected to each other.
The variability of shaping matter is analyzed through models that investigate various cases generated by permutations and combinations. These models are designed to explore different scenarios of matter, delving into conditions that determine what can or cannot be classified as alchemy. By examining these diverse cases, the models provide a comprehensive understanding of how shaping matter influences the transformation process, highlighting the intricate relationships and
potential outcomes within alchemical practices.
Condition 1
Alchemy processes where the initial transmutation is applied to the prime matter, and the shaping matter constitutes the subsequent process.
Concrete is used as a prime matter, which was transmuted through gravity as a shaping matter and the steel frame as a base. The materials of alchemy act as slabs that can be assembled and hence alchemy happens at the initial stage.
Prime matter : Concrete
Shaping matter : Gravity + Steel Structure
Prime matter : Concrete
Shaping matter : Gravity + Steel Structure
- gravity is the shaping matter in this case, it is a force pulling down the prime matter.
- the shaping matter is the process of shaping itself.
- the force applied from the hands and by the gravity or any other way is also matter.
The scenario where force serves as the shaping matter and gravity operates as both matter and process brings up several intriguing questions regarding the roles of various forces in alchemical transformations. This raises the issue of how other natural forces, such as magnetism or thermal energy, and artificial forces, like mechanical pressure or electromagnetic fields, can be classified and utilized. Are these forces to be considered shaping matter, prime matter, or integral parts of the alchemical process itself? This ambiguity invites a deeper exploration into the definitions and applications of natural and artificial forces within the context of alchemy, challenging our understanding of how these elements interact and contribute to the transformation of materials.
Are there other natural forces shaping matter in the larger context of alchemy?
If so, are mountains formed through the process of alchemy?
Are natural phenomena like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions etc. are alchemical?
Condition 2
Shaping matter is influenced by another matter. This process occurs in multiple stages, with the shaping matter acting initially to begin the transformation and later to define the form.
Concrete is used as a prime matter, the gravity is acting as a shaping matter that not only shapes prime matter but the other shaping matter (chain) as well.
The matter that directs the shaping matter becomes an integral part of the shaping matter itself. This concept is exemplified in the way Gaudi designed and constructed the Sagrada Familia. The alchemical process here occurs at the ideation (conceptual) level, demonstrated by Gaudi’s use of hanging chains to determine the form of the arches, which were subsequently built into the roof. This method showcases alchemy as an idea, where the guiding matter influences and shapes the final structure.
Prime matter : Concrete
Shaping matter : Gravity + Chain
- The chain hanging creates an inverted arch shaped by the gravity.
- There are two shaping factors in this case: one merges with the outcome, and the other gives direction.
The gravity is giving a shape to the hanging chain, the chain is getting merged with the poured concrete to create the arch.
Condition 3
The shaping matter (force), works in the opposite direction which shapes the matter in process.
The matter also changes its role in between.
Prime matter : Concrete, fabric (tensile)
Shaping matter : Gravity, fabric, steel structure
The concrete inside is shaped by opposing forces, with the fabric serving as the shaping matter. Gravity exerts a downward pull on the concrete, while ropes tied to the fabric maintain its suspension in the air. This interplay of opposing forces facilitates the transmutation of the prime matter, allowing the concrete to take on a specific form within the constraints of the fabric mold.
When the fabric is considered the prime matter, the concrete assumes the role of shaping matter. As gravity pulls the concrete downward, its weight stretches the fabric, creating a tensile structure.
This interaction between the concrete and fabric demonstrates a dynamic relationship where the fabric provides the initial form, and the concrete solidifies it, resulting in a unique structural formation. This process exemplifies how prime and shaping matters can be interdependent, each influencing the final outcome through their respective properties and the forces applied to them. However, when fabric is considered the prime matter, the transmutation of concrete facilitates the alchemy for the shaping matter rather than the prime matter. The stretching of the fabric results from the manipulation of matter, not the transmutation of matter, and therefore, it is not an alchemical process.
In this example, there are two types of prime matter. Concrete is poured into fabric that is suspended from a steel structure. In one instance, the filled concrete serves as the prime matter, while in another, the fabric itself is the prime matter.
Condition 4
The result was shaped by the alchemical process, but it was the breakdown and reassembly of the structure that provided a meaningful outcome.
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Prime matter : Concrete
Shaping matter : Negative + Air filled membranes
- The structure doesn’t need to be monolithic; the scale at which transmutation occurs determines whether it is alchemical. Alchemical processes can take place at any scale, whether it involves transforming small elements or large components. The key factor is the transformative process itself, not the size of the structure.
- Every element constitutes a material of the house, and every house is a material of the neighborhood. Each individual component, such as a brick or a beam, contributes to the construction of a house. Similarly, each house forms part of a larger neighborhood.
This interconnectedness emphasizes how smaller units combine to create larger, cohesive environments. If an anthill is completely dismantled, the sand particles return to their original state, indicating no change in the matter’s state. Therefore, the anthill is not a product of alchemy, as no transmutation of matter occurred. If the prime matter can be retrieved or reverted to its original state from the outcome, then the process is not alchemical.
Concrete is used as a prime matter, the alchemy is forming a structure which is a whole but not justified enough to be determined. This model is constructed using a process that diverges from conventional methods.
Alchemy and assembly are processes that occur at various scales and stages in the creation of a structure. In this particular case, the transmutation of matter takes place on a larger scale, and the
assembly process subsequently defines the final outcome. This approach contrasts with traditional methods, where the assembly usually precedes and guides the transformation of materials. Here, the larger-scale alchemical transformation sets the foundation, with the assembly process defining the final outcome.
- The scale is relative to both the creator and the observer. What may seem like a small detail to the creator can appear monumental to the observer, and vice versa. This relativity highlights the subjective nature of scale in the creation and perception of alchemy.
