To some Frank Gehry is considered
the American Architect of our generation because of his popularity and commissions, but as most people in their profession recognize, popularity does not deem one a virtuoso or a genius. On the contrary, popularity creates a personality that can manipulate and mold an identity which creates an individual the populace can marvel at. With this in mind, Frank Gehry further reiterates his lack of architectural theory and solely defends his design through childish model making.
His interview describes his ability to work through people and create architecture through images and dreams. I ask where and when does he consider the program and the public necessity of these projects.
In some ways this interview, is a dark conversation with Frank as they discuss the effects of age on an architect and the problems Frank faces because of his ineptness with technology. These concerns and his consideration for his employees are slightly heartwarming, but do not justify his greatness in the field of architecture.
Consider this, Frank Gehry the amazing architect of our generation that creates engineering marvels, but does not know how to use computers and does not know much about structural integrity.
To give Frank some credit, Frank was an amazing architect when he worked in smaller scales. His deconstruction and questioning of materials have propelled him to his current status, but they fail at many levels when built in the scale that he does today. To me, Frank's talent has been constantly diminishing since the construction of his house and the experimental constructs he developed through it.
WSJ Opinion
Life in Iraq seems to be getting worse and worse. Violence is rampant and housing is at shortfall. Since the invasion of Iraq by the US government land lords have been raising their rents due to restrictions lifted under Saddam's rule and have left tenants homeless looking for alternate housing. This has led to shantytown's similar to favellas in Brazil. Others have taken refuge in bombed and abandoned airbases.
To some Frank Gehry is considered the American Architect of our generation because of his popularity and commissions, but as most people in their profession recognize, popularity does not deem one a virtuoso or a genius. On the contrary, popularity creates a personality that can manipulate and mold an identity which creates an individual the populace can marvel at. With this in mind, Frank Gehry further reiterates his lack of architectural theory and solely defends his design through childish model making.
The High Line project is reminiscent of a certain gentrification that happened pre-1980s, the development of SoHo. New projects have swarmed Chelsea and developers are locked in to cash out. Through all this turmoil planners, architects and city agencies have worked to keep the High Line a public entity and have helped to divert privatization of the elevated park.
Los Angeles has started a nascent trend toward re-urbanizing their city, due to the irremediable traffic and commute. This has driven the younger population to live closer to their occupations and has therefore increased the density of LA. In response to this new trend, the city of LA has recognized the need for innovative, contemporary architecture. Architects Frank Gehry and Thom Mayne [2005 Pritzker Award] have rejuvenated west coast architecture and are redefining the city of LA. 