Point: Alternatives

In the Alternatives unit three dominant styles of architecture spearheaded the conversations held in class and in our readings.  These styles include Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque. Although each of these styles had there foundations in the classical world they embodied a spirit of innovation and a desire for change forever influencing the way Architects and designers think and create for years to come.

            The first style visited in this unit was Gothic architecture. Although most of the ideologies of these structures were carried out through the form of cathedrals, evidence of gothic architecture can be seen in residential spaces as well.  The gothic style embodied a religious experience through several design strategies.  None of which were as dramatic and impressive as the emphasis place on verticality.  Also repetition of identical forms such as ribbed vaults and pointed arches created a sense of rhythm and harmony. With these two design strategies combined gothic architecture induces a floating, trance like state emphasized by upward lifting sequences extended to infinity.

            Moving forward through the alternatives unit we reach the Renaissance. Not only was the Renaissance a style of architecture but a cultural revolution embodying almost every aspect of civic life.  Sparked in Florence by Artist and Architects such as Brunelleschi and Ghiberti the Renaissance was a rebirth of a classical language in architecture blended with a modern way of thought.  Throughout the renaissance architecture was regarded as a mathematical science of abstracted geometry applying heavily the Pythagorean concept that “all is number” (Roth 353) Unlike the gothic style that valued verticality and seemed to extend forever, Renaissance architects were very invested in idea of boundaries.  Through geometric patterns and forms lines were created that Cleary defined a space or a landscape.  We also see an emphasis on a single faced.  With repetition of like elements the faced is harmony, unity, and proportions embodied in a permanent structure. 

Following the Renaissance is the Baroque Period. In this period although a strong reverence for classic architecture can still been seen architects and designers push these concepts and bend the rules further than ever seen before.  In the baroque style unity is achieved through subordination of individual elements in order to invigorate the whole.  Theatricality and fluidity applied to a classical order embodies the baroque period. Lavish ornamentation and implication of curvilinear lines dramatize the structure and emphasized this notion of a theatrical“performance” and fluidity.    

  

      Bernini's david:

       The biblical figure David as interpreted by artist Bernini embodies the ideology of Baroque thought.  Breaking the mold of the typical contraposto pose seen in similar statues Bernini creates a dramatic, theatrical and fluid statue through Davids body position, facial expressions and implication of movement seen in his garments and sling. 

  

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.  

Point: Foundations

Because man exists, therefore architecture must exist.  Architecture is not only humanities way of providing shelter; it is a method of conveying a story.  We start this investigation of foundations in architecture in Egypt and sequentially move through time to Greece. We next move to the Roman Empire who capitalized on the notion of classicisms. Although each of these cultures has a unique design style we are able to see several instances of commonality among all three. These commonalties can be phrased in three terms, Lines, circles, and stacking.

            In Egypt we see one of the most common forms found in architecture, stacking.  Bricks of a grand scale made from line stone are stacked uniformly to create the grand pyramids. These large-scale pyramids reflected the power of the pharaoh as he was hailed as god on earth.  Also with these structures severing as a burial ground they pronounce the longevity of both the afterlife and Egyptian culture.  In other Egyptian temples lines were incorporated in and axial progression of space in order to strictly direct the way in which one would use the space.

            Moving east to Greece we see these same elements of lines and stacking echoed.  In addition to lines and stacking Greek architecture placed great emphasis upon order and proportion.  Upon the acropolis the Parthenon embodies the ideas of lines, stacking, order and proportion. Each element of the building has a direct and purposeful relationship the whole structure. Another design strategy that arises from Greek architecture is the idea of porch, court, and hearth.  This broke a structure down into three “layers” the outer most layer, a middle layer, and then finally a center layer. When applying this to the Parthenon we can clearly see this design strategy implemented. The outermost elements the stereobate, and styleobate serve as the porch, the space past that semi-enclosed by columns can be considered the porch and finally the hearth is the grand statue of Athena located in the rear of the structure.

             Following Greek culture was the Roman Empire. As in Egypt and Greece lines and stacking were intensively used. However due to Rome’s great advancements made in engineering the circle began to be utilized, most frequently in the form of domes and arches. Roman architecture was not only functional space but also a shout of power to the rest of the world from the emperors throne. Roman architecture followed in Greece’s footsteps when it came to order and proportion, however it was taken much further. Roman order and proportion as practiced on a much grander scale. Also in contrast to Greek architecture sitting comfortable in the countryside landscape Roman architects mounted their structures in urban settings.  Also in Rome we see a much broader variation of structures such as aqueducts, villas and domed temples.

http://www.philosophy.umd.edu/Faculty/jhbrown/beautyII/332-52a.jpg

 

Reading comprehension 3

1.  Time: Salisbury and Amiens Cathedral

            When comparing Salisbury and Amiens Cathedral the ratio of similarities to differences are striking. Although they are each designed as a space of worship with an emphasis upon verticality the designers took two unique approaches in completing the design.  These differences are likely due to the construction process of each cathedral.  With the Salisbury cathedral being built in 38 years it encompassed one generation’s ideology on how a place of worship should be designed.  This shows through the very uniformed style of the Salisbury Cathedral. In contrast to Salisbury, Amiens Cathedral went through a much longer construction process, lasting 190 years. Because of this long process the design of the building changed slowly over time as the ideas of the designers changed.  Although the cathedral is symmetrical and proportional it dose not offer that same sense of a uniform design seen at Salisbury.

 

Patron: Salisbury and Florence Cathedral

            Although both the Salisbury and Florence cathedral successfully accomplish order symmetry and a cohesive design the differences in the two structures are clear.  Salisbury cathedral was commissioned by church leaders allowing for an organized uniformed structure. Although the Florence cathedral appears to have an organized design strategy it is clear through different styles in important elements such as the entry doors and the dome that more than one hand played a role in both the design as well as the financing of the structure.

           

Inside/Outside: Although the Salisbury and Cologne Cathedral are interestingly similar on the interior their exteriors speak two very different languages.  On the interior we see a large emphasis on verticality and natural light. Also the use of the ribbed vault, which screams gothic, is heavily utilized in each structure. However when looking at the outside the differences are quite noticeable. The Salisbury cathedral has a even stance upon a rural landscape. And Cologne we see a structure that appears to be practically leaping off the ground. Because of this high degree of vertically much larger flying buttresses are implemented compared to those seen at Salisbury. The reason for this style of design at Cologne can likely be accredited to the urban location and limited space, and also the idea of reaching towards the heavens that we see in most Gothic places of worship

 

 

2.  The middle ages were brought on due to the decay of the Roman Empire. There was no longer a central government. Large cities dispersed and a more rural, agricultural life style was adopted. Small kingdoms began to arise and invasions and warfare became a way of life. Due to all of this change, naturally architecture changed as well.  Due to a new style of government, the feudal system the building of castles became a necessity through out the Middle Ages.  In the image found on blackboard we see a woman working in a medieval interior. This new style of domestic architecture is often characterized as cold and uninviting, which speaks to both the political and social ideology at the time.  Materials used were often local and inexpensive Such as Pinewood found in forest near by. Lavish materials and decoration had become a thing of the classical past. Often these domestic interiors consisted of only one room that was used for both sleeping quarters as well as a dinning hall. A hearth in the center provided heat, but due to poor ventilation left the room smog.

Example of a medieval interior

http://www.englishheritageimages.com/image/solar-room-stokesay-castle-n080470_1382710.jpg

Compass

Reading comprehension 2

Reading Comprehension 2

 

1.     1.  In Hersey’s writings great emphasis is given to the idea that the temples built in ancient Greece were structures that embodied the ideals of one sacrifice, and two nature.  I find the argument that the temple was the built embodiment not convincing.  Although I can see a clear connection between the body of the victim being sacrificed and the basic design of a column as Hersey describes, column as a foot, shaft as a body, and capital as a head. I feel that this is not enough evidence to make me believe that the soul design of the temple were to be based on the idea of sacrifice.  However the idea of nature being a powerful inspiration of design seems a bit more validated.  According to the text long before temples worship was held in groves of trees bound by rope and that in the pagan religion trees were so important that each god was symbolized on earth by there on tree.  When looking at the Greek temple style I am able to see this idea of a grove of trees emulated to perfection in rows and rows of organized columns.

 

2.     2  From Macaulay’s writings of the archeological study of a common day motel horribly misinterpreted I was challenged to ask myself, have I been guilty of this as well when studying past cultures art and architecture.  Although the field of archeology has made vast strides in the last 100 years there it is still highly difficult if not impossible to be able to know exactly what the thoughts and ideas that at the time drove culture. Often as students in this post-modern era it is easy for us as students to what we may find on the Internet to be just as accurate as information found in validated publishing’s or even knowledge that we may acquire ourselves.  I think that this reading, although humorous, offered serious room to leave us asking what we should believe and what should be disregarded.

 

 

3.  33.  As a pharaoh of ancient Egypt one if not the main concerns through out there rule was the construction of there funerary complex.  Although there are a few variations, Pyramids as those seen at Giza dominate the style of tomb design of ancient Egypt.  This style of architecture was grand in scale standing triumphantly upon the desert floor boasting the power of the king who lay rest there.  It is not until the reign of Queen Hatshepsut, or the fourth dynasty that we see a shift in tomb design.  The queen’s tomb speaks a more modest language. Fit snug into the side of the cliff it embraces the surrounding landscape rather than concurring it like the traditional pyramids.  Another clear distinction between the to structure styles is the inviting entrance of Hatshepsut’s complex verses the brut exteriors of the pyramids. Although there are likely many different reasons for these contrasts in design style, two stand above the rest.  The first, simply the gender of the designers. As a woman the need to separate her self from the former men rulers makes a powerful statement.  The second is the way of life at the time. In years previous when the pyramids were built life was somewhat unstable in the Egyptian Empire, separation of peoples and warfare were common.  However Queen Hatshepsut was known for unifying the upper and lower kingdoms of Egypt. Reflecting this in a design of a tomb complex that set itself apart from the past.

 

4.    4.  Egyptian and Greek architecture is often looked upon as two totally different phenomenon’s, and for good reason.  From what we know the differences between design ideology Greeks and Egyptians are vast.  However we do see some similarities in temple design between these two cultures. One of the most noticeable similarities is the use large of columns surrounding the perimeter of the temples.  Although with the Egyptian column boasting a stylized papyrus capital and the Greek column adhering to a strict Doric order it is easy to decide which one belongs to which. Another aspect of these two temples is they are each designed with a single axis of progression. Despite quiet different cultures and values It is no accident that each of these building take on the similar form.  Both the Egyptians and the Greeks fundamentalized the way the west built its places of worship for generations well past there own.  

http://www.sacred-destinations.com/egypt/images/philae/resized/hypostyle-hall2-cc-romsrini.jpg

http://www.planetware.com/i/photo/valley-of-the-temples-agrigento-aggrtm.jpg

 

5.     5. When comparing the style of Egyptian furniture to that of Egyptian architecture, especially that of the Pyramids of Giza it is easy to see how very different they are. When considering why it is they are so different, you must first ask what are they used for? The pyramids at Giza are tombs. No one is living and using the structure on a daily basis. At the same time they are much more than that. They are an expression of power laid upon the landscape to boast the glory of the king for eternity.  Yes, Egyptian furniture shows power and wealth through expensive materials and luxurious design, however they are created to be used.  This is likely the difference between any type of design. How and by whom is this building, or chair, or anything for that matter going to be used.

 

6.        In the study of Grecian culture ceramic vases are one of the most important and due to the longevity of material abundant artifacts that we have.  The two vases below depict a king or high Greek official sitting upon a throne. In each vase one or multiple women are closely attending him to.  These depictions reinforce the belief that men held much more power over women in Greek society. Vases were often used in Greek society to keep historical records of important rituals or events thus validating the study of these vases to grow a better understanding of just how this ancient society was ran. 

People, Space, Relationships