UPDATE: Cover: Art Building U of Iowa

Posted on September 3, 2007 by Matt Niebuhr - West Branch Studio

UPDATE: Steven Holl – interviewed by Charlie Rose. I was very happy and excited to see a bit of the University of Iowa’s new Art Building be a part of the noted work discussed in the interview by Charlie Rose. I have to say that having been a part of the team for the Art Building and from the architect-of-record point of view, this was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences I’ve had. I think it is important to note how many times Mr. Holl refers to “we” or “us” when describing the process. It begins with a strong idea that a group can work upon and with.

The “we” expands and contracts of course throughout process but ultimately boils down to recognizing the power of a strong client / architect / builder – with these three willful partners in this process a lot of great work and ideas can be accomplished.

Art Building_U of I, photograph by Matt Niebuhr.

Well, it’s fun to see your work, whether it’s a photograph, or a project, or both/and – published.

Art Building – School of Art and Art History, University of Iowa
Steven Holl Architects – Design Architect (Project link)
HLKB Architecture – Architect of Record

More photo’s of the project here

A review by Blair Kamin – Chicago Tribute architecture critic here in ArchRecord (full article in January 2007 ArchRecord magazine).

Best experienced as is all good architecture… in person…

Intersecting Images: Fragments [as seen through the lens]

Fragments as seen through the lens

Posted on August 11, 2006 by Matt Niebuhr - West Branch Studio

Fragments [as seen through the lens], posted by Matt Niebuhr.

I’m beginning to see different aspects of the Art Building – over time now that it is completed and I am able to pause and really look at it….

This image captures a moment for me where there is a condensing of experiences – the perception of physical space is folded, fragmented – partially transparent, partially reflected. Fuzzy edges – as has been coined by Steven Holl… might be exemplified by this photographic moment.

Such is the fragmented experience throughout the building. I do not perceive a final “center” focus… one space is always shifting, leading to the next space, revealing different gazing opportunities – always something around the corner. The experience of being in the building is orchestrated – suggesting a dialogue of program with the site, lagoon, bluff and of self. One can’t help but notice a constant reference – that of looking back at the building from various locations. There is a certain healthy self consciousness that develops I think.

More to come on this later…

Intersecting Images: UPDATE: Cover: Art Building U of Iowa