The Tchoban Foundation Museum for Architectural Drawing in Berlin is currently showcasing “Steven Holl – Drawing as Thought,” an extensive exhibition highlighting the American architect’s original watercolors. This captivating display features Holl’s design methodology and insights on significant projects, from early unbuilt concepts to contemporary works currently being constructed. Opened on February 6, it will run until May 4, accompanied by a catalog detailing Holl’s diverse portfolio of over 50,000 sketches and drawings, urging visitors to explore each piece thoughtfully.
In a video call from his Rhinebeck, New York home, Steven Holl reflected on his journey, particularly the significance of the Amerika-Gedenkbibliothek competition in 1988. This pivotal moment marked the start of his career, showcasing his talent alongside contemporaries like Thom Mayne and Michael Rotondi. Even though his winning design never materialised, it paved the path for future notable projects, reinforcing his influence in the architectural realm.
One of Holl’s most transformative projects was the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma in Helsinki, which he attributes to a pivotal change in his career. It was here that his unique vision took shape, winning an international competition in 1993 and marking his transition from academia to professional practice, culminating in a celebrated realisation in 1998.
Holl’s design philosophy is intimately interwoven with his practice of watercolour painting. He shared how the act of creating these artworks informs his architectural vision. “I religiously am working on watercolors. Only half the time, it is a building. A building can happen intuitively after the drawing has emerged,” he explained. This blend of artistic expression and architectural thought is exemplified in projects like Maggie’s Centre in London and The REACH extension at the Kennedy Center, which showcase his distinctive approach to space and material.
As our conversation concluded, Holl affirmed the enduring role of art in architecture, acknowledging emerging talents in China and highlighting the hopeful spirit that drives contemporary architects. His commitment to infusing art into structural design reinforces his belief in architecture’s potential to ignite change and innovation in the field.
Steven Holl’s exhibition at the Tchoban Foundation Museum reveals the architectural journey through his watercolours. Featuring key projects, it runs until May 4, emphasising Holl’s methodology and philosophy that intertwines art with architecture. Influenced by his early works and significant projects like Kiasma, Holl advocates for the role of creativity in contemporary architecture.
In summary, Steven Holl’s watercolours exhibition at the Tchoban Foundation Museum encapsulates his architectural journey and philosophy. This showcase not only illustrates his design process but also highlights pivotal projects that have defined his career. Holl’s conviction that art fuels architecture remains central to his practice, inspiring hope for future innovation in the field.
Original Source: www.archdaily.com
