Arch 882X [3-0-3]
History, Theory, Criticism: Dialectics of Making

Investigations into the arguments which address the act of making invariably reveal embedded dualities - or a dialectic of opposites - between determinism and autonomy, art and manufacture, nature and industry, the rational and irrational. By approaching the problem of making dialectically, this seminar will be concerned with developing a position from which to examine and critique the work and working methods of 6 contemporary architects: Steven Holl, Herzog and DeMeuron, Rafael Moneo, Frank Gehry, and Renzo Piano, and Danial Libeskind.

Part One - 7 weeks. Initially, the thematic categories will be framed through readings which disclose the inherent contradictions which exists within our contemporary architectural / cultural setting. These readings will bring us close to a number of 19th and 20th century debates concerned with the production of architecture.

Part Two - 7 weeks. We will closely examine projects by the 6 architects based on the criteria constructed in part one. Each student will be required to present research in progress and lead the discussion during one class meeting.

Part Three - 1 week. The last week will be an open discussion concerning the future of architectural practice and production.