In the architectural symphony of the Serralves Museum, a remarkable exhibition emerges: "Not Post-Modernism. Dan Graham and 20th-Century Architecture". This exhibition, the brainchild of the late Dan Graham, serves as a poignant testament to his life's work, where architecture's collective inhabitance was pivotal. The exhibition is curated by the discerning eye of Bartomeu Marí, a luminary in architectural academia, who meticulously pieced together Graham's intellectual legacy.
The exhibition venerates eight architects whose work influenced Graham profoundly, featuring Jan Duiker, Lina Bo Bardi, Atelier Bow-Wow, Sverre Fehn, Itsuko Hasegawa, Kazuo Shinohara, Anne Tyng, and Vilanova Artigas. These projects, curated by Graham, are translated into a curated space by Atelier Bow-Wow, fostering creative dialogue and the dynamic interplay of ideas and forms.
At the heart of this exhibition lies the transformative power of cork, a material that transcends mere function to become an integral element of design and sustainability. Corticeira Amorim's support of the exhibition underlines the innovative use of cork in modern architecture, demonstrating its versatility and ecological benefits. The use of cork in the exhibition's design elements not only pays homage to a natural treasure but also showcases the potential of sustainable materials in contemporary art and architecture.
Through a fusion of geometry and material, the exhibition illustrates the shared language between the artist's vision and the artisan's craft. From the bold diagonals in the works of Atelier Bow-Wow to the nested geometric forms of Anne Tyng's explorations, cork materializes these concepts into tangible experiences for visitors, emphasizing the harmony between natural elements and geometric precision.
In conclusion, the exhibition "Not Post-Modernism. Dan Graham and 20th-Century Architecture" goes beyond simply being a tribute to Dan Graham, establishing itself as a beacon of innovation in architectural thought and sustainable construction. This innovation is underpinned by the qualities of cork—performance and sustainability—which come together to reflect Corticeira Amorim's vision for the present and the future.
Credits: André Delhaye & Nvstudio
