Carbon Copy Exhibition at Texas A&M University

News Summary

The ‘Carbon Copy’ exhibition at Texas A&M University’s Wright Gallery showcases the profound influence of architect Le Corbusier on postwar designs. Featuring stunning black and white photographs by photographer Leonid Furmansky and exquisite scale models crafted by architecture students, the exhibition highlights key works such as the Couvent Sainte Marie de La Tourette and Boston City Hall. Additionally, a discussion event on January 13 will delve into architectural themes. Don’t miss the chance to explore this fascinating showcase before it closes on January 16.

Exciting Exhibition at Texas A&M University: “Carbon Copy” Takes Center Stage!

If you’re in College Station, what better way to spend some time than by visiting the fascinating exhibition titled “Carbon Copy” at Texas A&M University’s Wright Gallery? This stunning showcase dives deep into the world of architecture, focusing on the profound influence of the legendary architect Le Corbusier on postwar designs. And trust us, you’re going to want to check this out!

Unraveling the Charm of Le Corbusier

The centerpiece of the exhibition is Le Corbusier’s iconic project, the Couvent Sainte Marie de La Tourette, which was finalized in 1961. This incredible piece of architecture has left a lasting mark on buildings that followed, and “Carbon Copy” is here to show just how significant that impact has been.

Artists and architects alike will find plenty to admire, as the exhibition is a solo show featuring the work of Leonid Furmansky, an incredibly talented photographer based in Austin. Furmansky has captured stunning black and white photographs that highlight Brutalist architecture, which was significantly influenced by the genius of Le Corbusier.

From Models to Photos: A Perfect Blend

Both the photographs and the work of Texas A&M architecture students bring the exhibition to life. Students, under the expert guidance of James Michael Tate, a co-curator of the show, have crafted exquisite scale models that are displayed alongside Furmansky’s striking photographs.

Among the architectural models featured are:

A model of La Tourette itself, showcasing its timeless beauty from 1961.
A model of Boston City Hall, skillfully completed in 1968 by renowned architects Michael McKinnell and Gerhard Kallmann.
A model of the Langford Architecture Complex (Building A) in College Station, built in the early 1970s by HKS, which is home to Texas A&M’s own architecture school.

Furmansky’s Passion for Brutalism

Furmansky’s journey into this exhibition began after reading an insightful essay titled “From La Tourette to Neiman Marcus”. This essay, penned by influential architects Robert Venturi, Denise Scott Brown, and Steve Izenour, sparked Furmansky’s interest in exploring how Le Corbusier’s designs impacted architecture. The essay was generously shared by both Tate and AN executive editor Jack Murphy, opening up a whole new world for Furmansky.

Driven by curiosity, Furmansky traveled to La Tourette in France, as well as to Boston and New Haven, gathering photographic materials that further explore the striking aspects of Brutalist architecture. His gorgeous photographs not only include those of La Tourette but also feature noteworthy buildings like Paul Rudolph’s Yale Architecture School and some stunning Brutalist gems in Houston.

A Discussion Event to Dive Deeper

Mark your calendars! On January 13, a special discussion event will be held featuring Furmansky, Tate, Murphy, and architectural scholar Michael Abrahamson. They will dive into related themes in architecture and what makes these designs so captivating.

A Show You Can’t Miss!

The “Carbon Copy” exhibition is supported by the Academy for the Visual & Performing Arts at Texas A&M University and remains open to the public until January 16. This is a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the artistry of architecture, the transformative effects of Le Corbusier, and the innovative work of students. So don’t miss out! Spend a day enriching your mind at the Wright Gallery!