Architecture

In the first group, I chose the video Classical Architecture because I have always been amazed by the abilities of former civilizations to create enormous and incredibly decorated structures, whether exemplified by the Great Pyramids of Egypt or the beauty and power of Ancient Greece. Like a work of art, the video stresses the point that architecture is a representation of symmetry, balance, and harmony. The buildings rely on an aesthetic quality of proportion and even the use of light and dark. I have always been drawn to the combination of sculpture and architecture in these classical constructions, and find it not at all surprising that this style, which symbolizes order and pride, has been a tremendous influence on other cultures and has survived the ages. 

In the second grouping, I chose the video of Frank Gehry's work, specifically because I wanted to compare the styles of the classical with the innovation of the future. I think Frank Gehry's work represents a shift from the mundane and uniform to a more sculptural construction which emphasizes gesture and  movement through the use of curved line, color, and geometric and organic shape. Much like sculpture, or painting, Gehry's development has been a direct result of experimentation inspired by the arts and fellow artists around him. While I like the classical and monumental feel of classical architecture, as a society we still need the innovators like Frank Gehry  to experiment with new ideas, materials, and ways to enliven a space to move us into the future.