Modernity and the Architecture of Mexico [antikvár]

FOREWORD Much has been written and discussed in recent years concerning the relationship of modernity to architecture. In this regard, it is very difficult to precisely understand the concept of modernity in a country such as Mexico, where apparent opposites converge . . . rootedness and innovation, the ancient and the contemporary, romanticism and pragmatism as well as gentleness and strength. In Mexico, there is little possibility of understanding these dichotomies of our culture without both living in and loving our country, as many significant aspects of our history and character do not have a rational explanation. In this context, the architects active between the 19ZOS and 1960s were proudly Mexican, and typify this paradigm in terms of their professional posture and built work. This generation of architects truly understood culture, which was devoted to the service of society and the profession. They are an example of the role that the architect ought to play in society. In a time when egocentrism and commercialization dominate the architectural world, it is very healthy to study the work of a group of architects that bravely looked to their native roots in undertaking the task of the modernization of the country. This was characterized by truly robust form making by a talented generation of Mexican architects who made a valuable contribution to the development of world architecture without losing their individual characteristics. Unfortunately, because of the centralized control of the architectural media, as well as the humility of these architects, their work did not become well known or particularly valued around the world. This excellent study by Edward Burian presents architects, individual works, and concepts of surprising quality and also raises important questions. This book is, without a doubt, of great value for professionals and students to reevaluate an architecture of great maturity and objectivity, which is, unfortunately, uncommon in our times. Ricardo Legorreta Mexico City, July 1995