John Hejduk will forever be one of my favorite architects. His work is so far apart from his contemporaries and those who succeeded him, that it will become an example of an architecture without time. While many might believe that it appears dated and that other design trends like surfaces, wrapping and computer modelling have long since surpassed his work, I cannot say I think the same. Hejduk's use of architecture as narrative created a much deeper involvement for the viewer than most contemporary theoretical work. But what I love most about his work was the romanticized drawings that he produced. While many architects of his time focused on the sterility of their white box designs, Hejduk's drawings were always so infused with energy and personal connection that they transcend the page.
amen to that. Although, I would not say timeless. But rather, unlike his contemporaries and many 'name' architects working today, Hejduk's work, especially his drawings communicated three specific times: Users of a distant unperceivable past; modern technology and formal references; and narrative allure to that which has not yet occurred. I look forward to the work that his religious students and followers (now coming of age) put into play in the next few decades.
ReplyDeleteHey guys.
ReplyDeleteI'm an 3rd yr archi' student from Port Elizabeth, South Africa...
My task given: to do a paper on John Hejduk and the principles of his work.
Clearly he is a architect who tries to evoke a strong emotional response from the viewer..
but, thats as far as my knowledge 'bout him really goes.
Pls. if anyone can help here... just some brief information would be much appreciated.
Pls email me asap at:
goos3_16@hotmail.com
sincerely, T.Goosen