Reading Comprehension 4

1.     Although uniquely their own, when comparing the neo-Palladian period all the way through the American federal style of architecture many commonalties can be noted.  These similarities can then be applied to all scales, artifact, space, building and place that encompass each style. When narrowing the comparison down the artifact one of the most striking similarities that can be noted is the level of symmetry found in each detail of each artifact.  Also repetition is heavily applied to both ornamentation as well has shaped wooden elements. When zooming out and comparing spaces found within these style periods’ differences and variety become far vaster, however we still do see nuances that tie each of these spaces together. Possibly the easiest similarity to notice is the use of patterning. Although mostly seen on the walls these parents often make their way into other aspects of the space in the forms or drapery, carpeting and other textiles.  When increasing the scale to the entire building the similarities become a bit more clear.  The most dramatic similarity in each of these structures is the emphasis placed upon the façade. This is most often achieved by implementing a portico upon the faced. However at the Nathaniel Russell house we see a more simple faced framed only by an entablature and arched windows.  Also Symmetry is strictly used and can be found in each of these structures.

 

2.     As Europeans traveled across the Atlantic to the Americas along with them came their culture as well as their ideology of architecture. Because of the many different cultures traveling to the new world a wide variety of architecture can be noted. Most of these styles found in America are interpretations and recreations from structures previously found in Europe. These similarities can be applied to all three scales of artifact, space, and building. In artifacts found in the neo classical period of America we see a shared theme of rhythm through contrasting proportions in elements of a specific artifact.  Looking at a the variety of spaces found in the readings a common element that tied these together were the sense of materiality found in each of these spaces. Timber is heavily used because of its wide availability. However unlike the timber elements found in Europe timber in America is often sparsely embellished.  When looking at these structures as a whole it is easy to see their influence from Palladian classical architecture. The harmony created by the symmetry and repetition of elements closely echo’s the language of that of its European ancestors. The strongest difference that can be see between European neo-classicism and early American neo-classicism is the level grandeur. England , France, and Spain, being well established nations boasted far more elaborate architecture than that of the young colonies of America, which speaks a more humble design language.

             

3. As all art was influenced by the renaissance movement music was no different.  This new style of music that arose during the renaissance can be describe as polyphony style Meaning several different although relating melodies are played simultaneously. Also an element of repetition based upon every third and sixth note was heavily explored.  When applying this notion to the design of a Palladian style villa I first started with a central dome. From there I added two perpendicular axes that are six times as long as the diameter of the dome. Next three rectangular elements 2/3 the length of the original axes were added.  Finally a hall way running along the north/south axis a third of the width of the dome further divided the space while serving as a function way of moving throughout the villa. 

4. All great diversions are dangerous for a Christian life, but among all those the world has invented none is to be so feared as that given by theater” A quote by French philosopher Pascal embodies the cultural influence theater had in the 17^th century. Because of this overwhelming sense of Influence Theater played in 17^th century life its affects are seen through out all other forms of art created at that time, including the unavoidable art, architecture.  Baroque architecture applies the rules of geometry; order and proportion followed in both the classical world as well as the early renaissance and then elaborate upon those fundamental rules.  These elaborations were achieved through a level of highly detailed ornamentation, which put emphasis on manipulating materials to achieve a level or representation.  This added a level of visual complexity that romanticized the past expressions of classicism. When comparing this style of architecture to the art of theater the similarities are unavoidable.  Just as theater takes stories and gives them life through drama and elaboration, Baroque architecture gives classism a new meaning.