Rudy Ricciotti in exile… in the name of beauty
The Mediterranean architect Rudy Ricciotti has published a new book, following on from "L’architecture est un sport de combat" (Architecture is a combat sport), which appeared in the same series from the publisher Textuel.
On the construction front, Rudy Ricciotti is shortly to complete the Lillenium, an ETFE-clad shopping centre in Lille, the design workshops of the haute couture house Chanel in Aubervilliers, and the Conservatoire de Musique Henri Tomasi in Ajaccio.
In his new book, entitled "L'exil de la Beauté" (The Exile of Beauty), the architect of the MuCEM in Marseille turns his attention to politically correct beauty.
Extracts:
"Beauty does not go into exile of its own accord. Its departure is brought about by a general weariness of curiosity. Rendered invisible by neglect, it is driven away by our own behaviour. And we alone bear responsibility for its disappearance.
I have developed a taste for the persistent pursuit of a beauty that emancipates, and for risking being led astray. It is an individual undertaking. It rejects the total aesthetic disillusionment now prevailing in cultural circles."
"But the pursuit of beauty does not grant a certificate of impunity. There are blows to be taken…"
"I have developed a taste for the persistent pursuit of a beauty that emancipates, and for risking being led astray. It is an individual undertaking. It rejects the total aesthetic disillusionment now prevailing in cultural circles."