Антон Кальгаев: «Absence of the future. Чем никогда не будет венецианская архитектурная биеннале»

Summary

This transcript explores the evolution and current state of postmodern architecture, focusing on the decline of influential exhibitions and movements since the 1980s. The speaker reflects on the shift from prominent, unifying architectural movements to a fragmented landscape, where global issues are recognized but not always actively addressed in a coordinated way. While the media continuously reports on architectural developments, the speaker questions the possibility of creating influential exhibitions today. The importance of postmodern architecture is emphasized, with recommendations for further study of influential works and resources to understand its lasting impact.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the evolution of postmodern architecture, noting its rise and subsequent decline since the 1980s.
• 😀 The importance of exhibitions in the architectural field is highlighted, but the speaker questions their current impact and relevance.
• 😀 The transition from large influential exhibitions like the deconstructivism show at MoMA to smaller, fragmented ones is observed.
• 😀 Despite global acknowledgment of issues like climate change, the speaker points out that there is no unified movement to address them.
• 😀 The speaker reflects on how the architectural world today still produces new works, but without a clear guiding movement or cohesive direction.
• 😀 The role of architecture critics and the lack of influential figures or architects with a strong voice in contemporary exhibitions is questioned.
• 😀 The speaker suggests that a more unified approach to addressing common architectural problems may be necessary.
• 😀 The analysis includes a recommendation for deeper study of postmodern architecture through key resources, including books and websites.
• 😀 Krin, a prominent historian, is mentioned as a crucial figure in the study of postmodern architecture, with her works being highly recommended.
• 😀 The speaker concludes that while studying postmodern architecture can be refreshing, it requires intellectual effort and engagement to fully appreciate.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video script?

The main topic of the video is postmodern architecture, specifically focusing on the shifts and exhibitions that influenced the architectural field, especially in the 1980s.

How does the speaker describe the transition in architecture after the 1980s?

The speaker mentions that after the 1980s, architectural movements became more fragmented, with fewer influential exhibitions or unified movements. They note that architecture continued to develop, but there was no clear single movement addressing all the emerging problems.

What role did the 1980s exhibitions, like the MoMA deconstructivism exhibition, play in shaping architecture?

The 1980s exhibitions, such as the MoMA deconstructivism exhibition, played a significant role in showcasing new ideas and architectural movements, like deconstructivism. These exhibitions were pivotal in challenging traditional architectural concepts and sparking further developments in postmodern architecture.

Why does the speaker believe that there is no unified movement in contemporary architecture?

The speaker points out that while many architectural problems, like climate change, are widely acknowledged, there is no unified movement because different architects and critics are not coming together to create a singular response. There is a lack of consensus or a leading voice like there was in earlier periods.

What is the speaker's view on the impact of postmodern architecture today?

The speaker believes that postmodern architecture still holds relevance today, offering fresh perspectives and stimulating thought, although engaging with it requires effort. They suggest that a thoughtful engagement with postmodernism can lead to an enriching experience.

What is the speaker's perspective on the role of exhibitions in shaping architectural discourse?

The speaker suggests that exhibitions, especially those that occurred in the 1980s, were central in driving architectural discourse, presenting new ideas and shaping public and professional understanding of architecture. However, they express doubt that such influential exhibitions are as prevalent today.

How does the speaker compare the architecture of the 1980s to today's architectural landscape?

The speaker highlights that in the 1980s, there was a distinct and significant shift in architectural thought, but since then, architecture has become more dispersed and less cohesive. Despite the volume of new architecture being created and reported, the speaker believes there's a lack of impactful exhibitions and unified movements.

What resources does the speaker recommend for further exploration of postmodern architecture?

The speaker recommends reading books by historians like 'Krin' and visiting websites that archive detailed information about postmodern architecture. They also mention an interesting archive on the Char Foundation's website, which provides comprehensive insights into architectural movements.

What role does the speaker see for social media in shaping contemporary architectural discourse?

The speaker acknowledges that social media platforms like Instagram play a significant role in sharing architectural news and updates. However, they suggest that despite the widespread availability of information, social media alone may not be enough to create significant shifts or influential exhibitions in contemporary architecture.

What was the speaker's conclusion about the current state of architectural movements?

The speaker concludes that while architecture continues to evolve, there is no dominant or unifying movement today. They highlight that although issues like climate change are widely recognized, the field lacks a concerted effort from architects and critics to address these challenges in a unified way.