More than ever; architectural design is seen as a means to promote commercial goals rather than as an end in itself. Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao; for example; simply cannot be considered apart from its intended role as a catalyst for the economic revitalization of Bilbao and its ability to attract tourist dollars; regardless of its architectural merits. A built environment intended to seduce consumers is more likely to offer instant gratification than to invite independent thought and reflection. But how harmful; if at all; is this unprecedented commercialization of architecture? Framed with a provocative introduction by Kenneth Frampton; the contributions to Commodification and Spectacle in Architecture stake out a variety of positions in the debate over the extent to which it is possible—or desirable—to escape from; resist; or suggest plausible alternatives to the dominant culture of consumer capitalism. Rejecting any dreamy nostalgia for an idealized present or past in which design is completely divorced from commerce—and; in some cases; celebrating the pleasures of spectacle—the individual essays range from indictments of particular architects and critiques of the profession to broader concerns about what the phenomenon of commodification means for the practice of democracy and the health of society. Bringing together an impressive and varied group of critics and practitioners; Commodification and Spectacle in Architecture will help to sharpen the discussion of how design can respond to our hypercommodified culture. Contributors: Michael Benedikt; Luis Fernández-Galiano; Thomas Frank; Kevin Ervin Kelley; Daniel Naegele; Rick Poynor; Michael Sorkin; Wouter Vanstiphout. William S. Saunders is editor of Harvard Design Magazine and assistant dean for external relations at the Harvard Design School. He is the author of Modern Architecture: Photographs by Ezra Stoller. Kenneth Frampton is Ware Professor of Architecture at Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture; Planning; and Preservation and author of many books; including Labour; Work; and Architecture.
#2430087 in eBooks 2010-09-21 2010-09-21File Name: B0041IXRNE
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Singularly best photo styling book on marketBy morgan jonesI have been a working freelance fashion photo/film stylist for over a year. I ordered this book. along with many others on the subject of fashion/wardrobe/photo/film styling. to learn as much as possible about successful stylists experiences in their careers. how their careers took shape. what they experienced on different types of shoots. etc.This book is beyond what I was hoping for. including breakdowns of every type of styling and what skills you will need. What basic and specialty kits (checklists) you will need on various shoots. Tips on marketing yourself and exploring new markets.It is completely thorough and just personal enough to not be tedious.For a stylist that already has experience on various shoots. is already working. and is looking for something more detailed and comprehensive. this really is the only book out there right now that offers any valuable information.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Helped me succeed in my careerBy Erin SheaINCREDIBLE! One of the best books Ive found on photo styling! She has excellent experience in the fashion industry and is a credible and trusted source for learning more about styling. There is also a great website reference in her book called [...] where you can take on-line courses for a variety of styling techniques. Very impressed by her work!5 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Couldnt even read itBy NY READERThis book seemed really old and outdated. They are promoting to "photo style" and I had to laugh at how bad the photo on the cover was when I got the book. Not for the stylish.
