Our first project is to create a brochure. For the copy, we needed to research a well-known designer. Using books and blogs we were to write 450-650 words. This is my rough draft:
Philip Johnson: Post-Modernist Architect
Most well-known for his architectural genius in the creation of the Glass House, Philip Johnson is a designer who will be remembered for his groundbreaking achievements and beliefs in aesthetics over functionality.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1906, Johnson studied at Harvard Graduate School of Design, graduating in 1943. Before practicing architecture, Johnson was the founding Director of the Department of Architecture at the Museum of Modern Art. His first exhibition in 1932 called “The International Style” introduced the American public to Modern Architecture.
Philip Johnson has created numerous architectural landmarks, including the Kline Biology Tower at Yale University; the Seagram Building in New York; and the New York State Theater, part of Lincoln center.
By far, though, his most famous work is his former residence in New Canaan, Connecticut. It was here that he created his Glass House. He later added several other buildings to the overall design, including the Brick House, Sculpture Gallery, and the Pavilion. The grounds are now open to the public with a mission to preserve modern architecture and help inspire future generations.
Johnson believed greatly in the idea that architecture is about art and not about function. He declared, “My attack on functionalism is about ‘business functionalism’ which says, ‘I’ll do whatever the client says, instead of standing up for art.’” He used his designs to make his occupants uncomfortable or what he called “safe danger.” He designed high steps with no railing in his Kirstein Tower, and his steps for his Fort Worth Water Garden design had a chasm with water running through them. Johnson uses his architectural designs to communicate. He concentrates on much more than function, allowing his designs to influence and effect the people who use them.
He was also heavily influenced by the Nazi era and was attracted to the power of Hitler (some even question his morals). He was impressed by their powerful display. He mourned the fact that Hitler was not a good architect because he could have done much with his buildings instead of implementing such extreme functionality.
Philip Johnson has had an important effect on the world of design. Even before he formally studied to become an architect, he was an architectural historian and worked to introduce architecture to the world. When he created his Glass House and further designs on his New Canaan land, Johnson created something that would influence the world. Although not a practical architect, Johnson worked to make statements and influence those around him. He wanted to use the power that came with architecture to create communication. Upon his death in 2005, the world of design marked the end of an influential artist and powerful man. But his legacy will live on in his architectural masterpieces.
Sources:
http://philipjohnsonglasshouse.org/
http://arcscholar.blogspot.com/2009/03/post-modernism-engaging-image-of.html
Cook, J.; Klotz, H. Conversations with Architects. New York: Praeger Publishers, 1973.
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