The exhibition illuminates how Tropical Modernism, while rooted in colonial history, symbolized postcolonial aspirations for newfound autonomy and expression. It provided a canvas for architects to break free from historical constraints, signaling a departure towards novel architectural possibilities
The Victoria and Albert Museum delves into the dynamic realm of Tropical Modernism, spotlighting its emergence in West Africa, Modern India, and Ghana. Drew and Fry spearheaded much of the movement’s evolution, notably in Ghana and India, where post-independence leaders like Kwame Nkrumah and Jawaharlal Nehru embraced its ethos, considering it emblematic of progressive ideologies on the global stage, an article in archdaily.com by Nour Fakharany stated.
The exhibition illuminates how Tropical Modernism, while rooted in colonial history, symbolized postcolonial aspirations for newfound autonomy and expression. It provided a canvas for architects to break free from historical constraints, signaling a departure towards novel architectural possibilities.
Through a curated selection of models, sketches, and historical artifacts, the exhibition unveils the pivotal figures and architectural innovations that defined the Tropical Modernist Movement.
The exhibition underscores the importance of analyzing Tropical Modernism through the lens of anti-colonialism, integrating perspectives from the Global South to provide a nuanced understanding of its enduring relevance
Segmented into three sections—West Africa, Modern India and Chandigarh, and Ghana—it presents a narrative of architectural modernism amidst colonial and post-colonial contexts, shedding light on overlooked contributions from African architects like Theodore Clerk and Peter Turkson.
According to Nour Fakharany, the section dedicated to “Temples of Modern India” explores the collaborative effort behind Chandigarh’s creation, epitomizing a fusion of cultural identities in architectural form. Furthermore, the exhibition underscores the importance of analyzing Tropical Modernism through the lens of anti-colonialism, integrating perspectives from the Global South to provide a nuanced understanding of its enduring relevance.
In related news, the 2024 Jane Drew Prize for Architecture celebrates the achievements of Polish-French architect Iwona Buczkowska, while recent editions of the Venice Architecture Biennale have showcased the evolving narratives of African modernism and the significant contributions of Black women in the architectural sphere.
***********************************************************************
Readers
These are extraordinary times. All of us have to rely on high-impact, trustworthy journalism. And this is especially true of the Indian Diaspora. Members of the Indian community overseas cannot be fed with inaccurate news.
Pravasi Samwad is a venture that has no shareholders. It is the result of an impassioned initiative of a handful of Indian journalists spread around the world. We have taken the small step forward with the pledge to provide news with accuracy, free from political and commercial influence. Our aim is to keep you, our readers, informed about developments at ‘home’ and across the world that affect you.
Please help us to keep our journalism independent and free.
In these difficult times, to run a news website requires finances. While every contribution, big or small, will makes a difference, we request our readers to put us in touch with advertisers worldwide. It will be a great help.
For more information: pravasisamwad00@gmail.com