In Search Of Architecture And Its Meaning

The bleak emphasis on the world's urban problems at the 10th International Architecture Exhibition at the Venice Biennale overwhelms any architectural aspirations.

1 minute read

September 15, 2006, 7:00 AM PDT

By Deborah Myerson


"Cities, architecture and society" is the theme of the architecture exhibit at the 2006 Venice Bienniale. Yet, as New York Times architecture critic Nicolai Ouroussoff observes, the pervasiveness of poverty in global cities comes across more strongly in the show than any architectural profiles -- and fails to examine the role of the architect in perpetuating or combating these urban ills. He comments, “What the show provides, in place of inspired architecture, is a window on a dystopian future."

Thursday, September 14, 2006 in The New York Times

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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