The Tribune

Should architecture be considered an art form? Many people, especially young apprentices seeking to become architects and enrolling in school, often speculate upon this. Although subjective, many still maintain that architecture is solely an activity of the elite and wealthy.

Some maintain that architecture is a standalone art form due to its links with visual aesthetics and philosophy. This difference of opinion can create quite a stir, but views can be argued and weighed differently.

Fine art, for the most part, is different since some artists are able to choose their own battle and constraints, while others do not have the same challenge. They use a ‘blank canvas’ as a metaphor, and decide the medium, subject and rules on their own. This principle also applies to architects, as they are given constraints and guidelines to a specific project.

Some architects integrate art into their designs, which serves to make their work richer and more affluent, resulting in some form of special reality - a special place - that is alive and admired.

Everything has a bottom line, and architecture is no exception, as it has a responsibility to culture, beauty and society. Its art form reflects time, and uses numerous sensory elements to enhance and design colour, shape, line, texture, and dark and light space. There can be nothing that speaks more strongly to the value of architecture as a discipline in this way.

By the same token, the employment of architects is projected to grow by 7 per cent worldwide between 2014 to 2024, and competition for jobs will be very strong as the many applicants continue to outnumber available positions.

With this in mind, architecture must be considered a pure form of ever-evolving art, and I must believe this act alone defines its practitioners as both artists and achitects. However, outside of my philosophy, inquiring minds might still want to know what constitutes art.

Think about this: While seated before a blank paper, you are asked to create something that was not there before. It does not matter that it originates from a functional programme, using sophisticated tools, materials and other human beings. That, no doubt, sounds like the process of art to me.

The value of architecture lies in its practical considerations, and ability to solve functional real world problems. Everything yesterday, today and tomorrow is - and will always fall - at the feet of some sort of art form, based upon a calculated decision-making process.

Architecture is not meant to express personal views, but merely to find solutions to constraints. So, are we still wondering about the ‘elephant in the room’? Is architecture an art form or not? I have thought about this long and hard, but have never settled on one answer, as the question always arises: “Does it really matter?” In my humble opinion, it does not.

It is not the definition or its classification that seals the deal, but the effect or influence a project has on both the creator and its viewers.

Remember, some creations solve physical problems; some solve client problems; and some simply solve an emotional problem by placing a smile on our faces as an indication that there is still some good left somewhere in the world. That artist does come in the form of an architect. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories as opposed to regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: The columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT THE COLUMNIST: Deidre Marie Bastian is a professionally trained graphic designer/marketing co-ordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova South Eastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas