2007
Reality Chic
Profesors:
Nigel Whiteley
Žarko Paić
Penezić & Rogina architects
Nenad Korkut
Saša Begović
Nenad Roban
Time:
10–19 August 2007
Architecture and fashion have traditionally been seen as opposite ends of the spectrum: architecture’s feats were to do with permanency and seriousness; fashion’s fates were ephemerality and triviality. Today, however, the spectrum has exploded and imploded: both architecture and fashion can now be seen in terms of identity, branding, expression, display, lifestyle and spectacle, and as enabling devices for the possibilities and choices open to the consumer-citizen in the age of radical individualism.
In the post-disciplinary, digital age, architecture and fashion need not be seen as discrete realms but as common worlds with shared interests. The Symposium will explore the connections and complexions between architecture and fashion. For example, architecture can be in fashion - a style may go through cycles of fashionability, obsolescence and revival, although the revival will never be quite the same next time round.
In both architecture and fashion, past styles can be appropriated and quoted, opening up possibilities for irony, subversion and humour. Architecture can be seen as form of clothing, providing protection and privacy, or openness and display; both can be framing or enabling devices for performativity. Adornment and decoration apply to both, ranging from the permanent (decoration and ornamentation; cosmetic surgery) to the ephemeral (colouring of façade, night lighting, graffiti; hairstyle, make-up, transfer tattoos and make-overs). Architecture and fashion are both strongly imaged/represented with conventions of “classic” poses and views; both enjoy voyeurism and collectors.
Since the mid-20th century there have been examples of architecture and fashion merging either through “expanded clothing” (eg Haus Rucker’s Flyhead) or “condensed architecture” (eg Italian micro-environments). Now there is a merging by means of digital, responsive environments that respond to touch, light or movement; or through attaching accessories, gadgets and devices to the body.
Grožnjan Summer School of Architecture
JMI CENTRE GROŽNJAN
Umberta Gorjana 2, 52429 Grožnjan, Croatia
groznjanschoolofarchitecture@gmail.com
