PALM SPRINGS, CA.- Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion debuted Bauhaus twenty-21: An Ongoing Legacy - Photographs by Gordon Watkinson on January 24. The exhibition continues through May 1, showcasing 12 of the most iconic achievements of Bauhaus architecture built before 1933, and 12 contemporary examples.
The exhibition illustrates the enduring philosophies of the Bauhaus in 21st century architecture. By creating a visual as well as theoretical dialogue between the timeless modernism of Bauhaus architecture and the visions of contemporary practitioners, the exhibition offers a unique perspective on Bauhaus design philosophy and its relevance in todays society -- from the use of prefabricated housing techniques to create affordable housing, to early ideas in what is today sustainable architecture.
In addition to the sections dedicated to the 24 architectural projects, the exhibition presents a contemporary setting showcasing re-editions of Bauhaus furniture and objects designed before 1933, and still manufactured today by companies such as Knoll, Tecnolumen, and Thonet. These installations invite viewers to interact and consciously experience a unique environment specifically conceived for the exhibition, capturing the timeless character of these early 20th century designs in a contemporary context.
Bauhaus twenty-21: An Ongoing Legacy − Photographs by Gordon Watkinson is organized by Foto+Synthesis under the patronage of UNESCO, and with the kind support of Federal Foreign Office, Goethe Institut, Alien Skin, Canson, Knoll, PICTO, and TECNOLUMEN. The Palm Springs showing is funded in part by Presenting Sponsor Eisenhower Medical Center, with additional support provided by the museums Architecture and Design Council, and the Photography Collection Council, John P. Monahan, and L.J. Cella. A+D Center Exhibitions Sponsors are John Boccardo and Derek Esplin. Exhibition Season Sponsors are Dorothy Meyerman and Marion & Bob Rosenthal.
A fully illustrated catalogue for this exhibition is available for purchase at the Palm Springs Art Museum Store and at the Bradford W. Bates Vault: Museum Design Store at the A+D Center. The A+D Center is located at 300 South Palm Canyon Drive, in downtown Palm Springs, and can be reached at (760) 423-5260.