Reading about neoclassical architecture really makes one think about the influence that architecture (which is apparently termed as a fine art) and art has upon the human psyche. The reading we did on Jefferson mentioned that his love of classical designs in architecture were tied to his political leanings. He hated English architecture not only because it was tacky looking, but because it was made by the English.
To him, it symbolized a close mindedness, a final, inflexible, stodgy pretentiousness. This seems like a bit of a stretch, that it's just a man who hates everything about the English, including their art. But, apparently, architecture is a big deal to a lot of people.
I found this quote: "A modern, harmonic and lively architecture is the visible sign of an authentic democracy."It was written by Walter Gropius. He was a german architect, who was born in 1883. However, this is relevant because it serves to emphasize that architecture, art, aesthetic things, ultimately symbolize a lot more than a building or shelter.
How we make things look, the way we picture things, serves to emphasize how we want things to look, but also how we want things to be. By making his architecture more open, more influenced by the Classical period, Jefferson was trying to spread a message of openness, and create a foundation (Bad pun, I apologize) that we can all build upon.
No comments:
Post a Comment