This well overdue collection of finely illustrated essays
delves into Central and South American architecture and
city planning in a comprehensive manner. The vast number
of cities and architects included within the book is a thorough
testament to the enduring efforts of these societies as
they have struggled with changing political climates, identity,
the history of colonial rule, and global economic challenges.
From the quiet spaces of Luis Barragan to the colorful
landscapes of Roberto Burle Marx, the culture of design
and architecture is entwined into a fascinating dialog with
the greater social and political context. This dialog comes
alive in essays revealing the realities such as the monumental
development of Brasilia in the midst of the struggling economic
stagnation of the 60’s, the slums of Brazilian cities, and
how political influence shaped the empty anti urban plazas
in Havana.
For the reader of modern architecture, there are many prizes
throughout this collection of essays. The works of Lina
Bo Bardi, Carlos Raul Villanueva, Lucio Costa and more are
examined and illustrated within this greater context by
such distinguished scholars as Carlos Fuentes and Eduardo
Subirates. An essay titled "Le Corbusier: Latin American
Traces" explores the influences of the European master and
his many largely un-built proposals in Latin America. It
becomes evident in this essay and throughout the book how
influential Le Corbusier and early 20th Century Modernism
became, to the degree that it has given the region far more
modern masterpieces than any place outside of Europe.
This book is the catalog from an exhibit in 2004 by the
same title. It is a diverse and dynamic exploration of architecture
and planning in Latin America, and a collection of some
of the most energetic work in the past century, woven together
in scholarly essays.
Thanks to guest reviewer Jim
Kehoe of Z-Group Architects in Aspen, Colorado.
