A new Student Centre and the pedestrianization of the University of the Free State campus

Regrettably, academic buildings in South Africa often suffer from a Rstigma of ideological nepotism - a social phenomenon that is seldom conducive to architectural excellence. The University of the Free State in Bloemfontein is no exception, and consequently any new design commission is followed with both interest and envy

A contemporary assessment of the genesis of the modern aesthetic : the impact of modern art on modern architecture.

Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1999.This dissertation assesses the impact of modem art on the so-called heroic period of modem architecture, dated for the purposes ofthis thesis from 1917 to 1933. The study is premised on two principal arguments: firstly, modem art - Cubism, in particular - was the seminal influence on the codification of a modem architectural vocabulary. Secondly, the increasing preoccupation with utilitarian tenets obscured and ultimately undermined the semantic significance ofmodem architecture that was derived from the visual arts. A general introduction to the tumultuous history of 20th century architecture substantiates these presuppositions and contextualizes the current interest in the aesthetic intent of the pioneering Modernists. For the sake of reviewing the genesis of the modem aesthetic, the classical ideal of beauty is briefly reflected upon. This is followed by a review of the alternating depiction of pictorial depth and its extraordinary symbiotic relationship with the expression ofplastic space. The cubist-induced perception and experience of space is preceded by the catalytic role of the mechanization ofvision on the rejection ofthe classical canons of beauty. An in-depth analysis of Cubism, coupled with its derivatives that spawned architectural equivalents, reinforces the volumetric incarnation of modem art, exemplified by Purism, Constructivism and Neo-Plasticism. This study is concluded with an assessment of the adopted prerruses and a reflection on the longer-term objectives of this study

Om argitektuur te 'pleeg': die diskrepansie tussen die praktyk en die akademie

This presentation decries the dismal state of contemporary South African architecture as exemplified by our user-unfriendly city centres, ungainly and neglected civic spaces and alien, stylistically-driven commercial and residential developments. Prof. Joubert, firstly, compares local architectural manifestations with current international design trends, and, secondly, questions the extent to which our particular socio-economic challenges to design are being addressed. The presentation bears affect on all involved in the building industry, as well as the major role players of the city. The objective is to drive the point home that the quality of the built environment is ultimately everyone's responsibility and is even of national importance.Text of inaugural address by Prof 'Ora Joubert, Department of Architecture, University of Pretoria, on 18 Nov 2004

Africa Insight

Africa Insight is published quarterly by the Africa Institute of South Africa, an independent study centre concerned with African affairs.This journal focuses on contemporary issues of Afric

Africa Insight

Africa Insight is published quarterly by the Africa Institute of South Africa, an independent study centre concerned with African affairs.This journal focuses on contemporary issues of Afric