A Dream Deferred

What could be more ideal than the productions of ancient masters?  When I think of architecture at least, I immediately recall the Parthenon, the Great Pyramids or less specifically Greek columns.  Can you imagine the pressure for modern architects to compete with ‘perfection’?

When I was presented this image in my modern architecture class, I first made sure I wasn’t retaking ancient-gothic architecture.  Then I realized, the dreams of architects had always been to strive for the perfection of classical examples.  Whether it be the symbolic height that elongates gothic cathedrals or the gilded top of gold that once graced the pinnacle of pyramids, these works of art have always been the standard for architects. However, modernism changed that.  Modern architects faced new technology during the industrial revolution that would defer the ‘dream.’

The drapes that uncover the mindset of the architect pre-17th century are also the same drapes that eventually get drawn to usher in a new style of architecture.  Architects became tired of ‘copying’ their ancestors and of proving their technical abilities.  They were dissatisfied with being products of elite academies.  They realized the amount of possibility new materials like iron and steel possessed.  They also realized their architecture no longer had to be a reflection but could be a projection of the future.

I have never been open towards modern art—perhaps its my own education that have shaped my interests; however, learning about the new types of buildings that architects constructed has been inspiring.  Although I am still in love with Thomas Cole’s painting, I have a newfound interest in architecture that surprises.  Such a work would be the “Crystal Palace” built by Joseph Paxton in London.  This ‘building,’ for the lack of a more appropriate word, was entirely made of glass and iron for the purpose of showcasing new technology at the World’s Fair of 1851.  Although there may have been plenty of interesting exhibitions, the architecture itself must have been the most wondrous.  It is a prime example of the productions of the industrial revolution as it showcased the goods of colonized territories and was constructed from pre-fabricated materials, like glass.

Aside from its function and materials that are in it of themselves innovative, it resembles a greenhouse and therefore, it allows its treasures inside to be viewed from all angles.  Of course Paxton had probably wished he had installed a fan system, due to the overabundance of light and heat that entered the space, fair-goers must have been in awe.  Even with my familiarity with modern architecture, I am still amazed by this structure.  It is not supported by Ionic or Corinthian columns and it is certainly not covered in marble, but rather it sets its own standards.  It would be ignorant to say that Paxton completely rejected classical teachings as the building has a clear entrance and sense of direction; however, it is certainly modern.

Borrowing Langston Hughes’ title, “A Dream Deferred,” it seems appropriate to recognize the amount of courage modern architects had to put aside the visions of the past.  Although I am unable to see the “Crystal Palace” today, modern architecture is especially abundant in the city, as seen in the tall, windowed buildings we call skyscrapers.  I only hope I can form a new vision of architecture for myself; a vision of the Empire State Building, the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum all on the same block.

-Stephanie Montalti