In the present day, the teaching framework of architecture is gradually becoming more difficult to align with the real world. This may partially explain why Gordon Matta-Clark's practice and approach as an architect after studying architecture are completely different from traditional architects. His reflections and explorations in practice and creation may be closer to the essence of architecture. He cuts through abandoned buildings, reassembles and synthesizes waste materials in the streets and under bridges, explores the underground spaces of thplayfully conquers tree spaces, and even toys with virtual spaces in images. These "destructive" or "creative" reuses of space may represent his way of challenging modernist architecture.
Similar circumstances can also be found in the past experiences of our invited speaker for this lecture, Mr. Li Juchuan. His focus on architecture and the city is expressed through performance art, urban art initiatives, and artistic interventions in existing buildings. He constantly reflects on the boundaries of architecture, urban development issues, and the relationship between space and culture. We can view his ongoing artistic planning and creation as a series of "struggles," but is space the only object of his endeavors? He will provide us with detailed explanations during this lecture.
Li Juchuan: "Matta-Clark's work is often seen as an artist's creation. Although he has an educational background in architecture and primarily works with buildings, his work differs greatly from that of architects. In a widely accepted classification, they seem to be regarded solely as artistic creations. However, in my opinion, Matta-Clark's work precisely demonstrates the enduring significance of architects' work today. The development of modern capitalism has made it impossible to be a classic architect anymore; today's architects are merely product designers. But Matta-Clark's practice shows us that even though the profession of an architect has lost its meaning, the knowledge of architects can be employed in new ways. Especially in the various struggles we engage in regarding space today, architects' knowledge opens new dimensions for these struggles, making them more powerful and effective. In this lecture, I will start with two case studies by Matta-Clark and then discuss the aforementioned issues through a series of (including my own) practical cases that have taken place in China."
