"If you don't engage in social issues you're just comparing shapes"

Though this article was focused on a panel of who's who in NY architectural criticism, and the role of their work in a changing world, there were several points that jumped out at me in light of yesterday's discussion.



Gehry to Playboy Jan 2012



"Julie Iovine, executive editor of The Architect’s Newspaper and moderator of the panel, spoke of a “sea change,” the move away from starchitects to a focus on affordability, sustainability and context."

Unfortunately for us, the writer did not delve into his seemingly throw-away statement,

"But while New York sees no end of the trophy -- Christian de Portzamparc’s One57 will soon be the tallest new example -- the rest of the world has seemingly moved on.

Moved on, indeed. Please tell me more!

 

How about something we can work with (in considering what we want our voice to say) ....

The following statement by the author hits home our point about the "other 90%" who don't necessarily consider Architecture at all: 

"And while typical readers of New York magazine may not know the difference between Art Deco and Postmodern, they notice absences and new arrivals."

Individual realities are shaped and informed by past experience.  Until we can provide a clear experience of architecture, it's history and impact, those who do not have the educational or experiential background of an architect will never see the world as we do.  And I don't think they necessarily should - we make awful clients the same way doctors are the worst patients.  

I think our challenge is to clearly and concisely demonstrate that humans are indeed affected by their environments and vice versa - without relying on our beloved archi-speak which only serves to further set us apart.

On a side note, while we're speaking of context.... 

Has Starchitecture Lost its Luster?

Be sure to peruse the first dozen reader responses.  I especially like the chime-in from the real estate agent who can't sell the brand new starchitect condos because the kitchens are pathetic and the "master" bedrooms can't even accommodate a queen-size bid!  It's gotta work, people!  

The Death of Starchitecture? Critics Move to the Small Scale