20 LATIN AMERICAN MODERNISM

LATIN AMERICAN MODERNISM (1932-1982)

North American Architecture in the 1950s

  • North American architecture selectively adopted elements from European Modernism.

  • Developed a polished style for an advanced industrial economy, focusing less on social transformation.

  • Preference for Mies van der Rohe over Le Corbusier emphasized this selectiveness.

Le Corbusier's Influence in Latin America

  • In Latin America, particularly in Mexico, Le Corbusier was seen as a modernity prophet.

Mexico

Early Modernist Movement

  • Juan O'Gorman challenged traditional architecture in 1924, influenced by Le Corbusier's "Vers une architecture."

  • Adopted functionalism: building forms should arise from activities and materials rather than tradition.

O'Gorman's Projects

  • Created a personal house in San Angel, utilizing reinforced concrete and blockwork.

  • Designed the Rivera-Kahlo House (1932) for Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, recognized for its modern aesthetic.

Mexico City University Library

  • Designed by O'Gorman in 1953, with windowless walls adorned by colorful tile murals.

  • Established as a functional model, integrating artworks with modern architecture.

Ciudad Universitaria (University City)

  • Symbolized post-revolution progress (1910), designed to reflect social and economic development.

  • Features borrowed elements from ancient Teotihuacán.

  • Murals integrated awkwardly into modernist buildings, emphasizing the tension between art and architecture.

Luis Barragán

  • A prominent figure, Barragán's personal development diverged from government-led modernism.

  • Inspired by nature; he emphasized the physical landscape in "Jardines del Pedregal" (post-1945).

  • Created inward-looking homes with nature-integrated elements, exemplified in his own house (1948).

Brazil

Modernist Developments

  • Le Corbusier strongly influenced Brazilian architecture, starting with his visit in 1929.

  • Lúcio Costa designed the Ministry of Education and Health (MES) building alongside Oscar Niemeyer, marrying radicalism with Corbusian principles.

  • The approach involved lifting buildings on pilotis, creating open public spaces below.

Oscar Niemeyer's Works

  • Raised international awareness of modern architecture at the 1939 New York World Fair through the Brazilian Pavilion.

  • Promoted free-form Modernism with various designs like the Pampulha complex, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern elements.

Brasília

  • Planned by Lúcio Costa with significant contributions from Niemeyer, symbolizing modern Brazil.

  • Designed primarily to function and reflect a distinct Brazilian identity through innovative forms and material use.

  • Criticized for becoming an exclusive civil-service space, lacking sufficient low-income housing.

Lina Bo Bardi

  • Italian architect who immigrated to Brazil in 1946.

  • Known for her socially conscious designs, e.g., the São Paulo Museum of Art (1960-1969).

  • Her designs often aimed to represent social equality and community integration, contrasting traditional elitist architectural trends.

SESC Pompeia

  • Last major project reflecting Bo Bardi's commitment to social architecture.

  • Repurposed a factory into a leisure center, combining modernist aesthetics with community-focused design.

  • Emphasized the idea of 'arquitetura pobre', valuing simplicity and connection to the community.