Architecture has been one of mankind’s first expressions of collective art; the building of important structures and centers which become cultural accomplishments known world-wide, such as the Roman Colosseum or New York’s Times Square. From the Eiffle Tower to Egypt’s pyramids, these are just a few examples of human ideals expressed in not just how we live and relate but WHAT we live and relate in.

A Matter of Resources

The geniuses out there doing the creative problem solving of skyscrapers, say, are cross referencing with new scientific developments in resources and materials engineering, people who experiment with design the same way paint/sculpture artists do. Technological advancements such as 3D printing and other synthetic forms make architecture the new artistic landscape, as well as a medium for psycho-social observation. Can our structures be built using disciplines such as biomimicry to avoid damage from severe weather? Is it possible for our homes to be fabricated with less toxicity, waste and energy consumption -which translate to less money? I say absolutely yes!

The Proverbial Light Bulb is ON

History has shown us that architecture as an art form is not only that which is built, but the reasoning/audience for whom it was constructed. As an occupation, it has always been one seeking perfect equilibrium and, in present times, it should be driven by something greater than soaring egos and bank accounts. With serious issues facing cities from coast to coast, society should allow this art form to help, perhaps, solve homelessness or climate change.

The interaction of human lives within the confines of man-made structures really does set the aspects of how we engage the rest of the world. While it is maintained that the family is the heart of society which is the backbone of a nation – or some such truth no matter how soliloquied – then must our habitats be harmonious and sustainable for the rest of our existence to follow, as well. Ding! Fries are done!

Shelter is a matter of survival and I am dismayed to feel that through greed and indifference we are weaponizing housing in America. Truthfully, it is a closed system: The more you have, the less someone else has. “Live simply so that others may simply live,” implored Mahatma Gandhi.

Brilliant thinkers are out there inventing a new future where basic dignities can be met in cost efficient ways, but they need ‘the government(s)’ to allow innovation and opportunity beyond the grasp of those who control the civic policies or purse strings. I guarantee the world would soon see more peace and general contentment amongst the people, if only mink would shed.

ArtBeat cannot promote enough the myriad of great achievements that exist in the art and science of architecture. We invite you to watch the PBS series Confluence: The Material World #102 for inspiration.