Synopses & Reviews
In this anthology of his writings, spanning over sixty years of his professional career, Fitch's incisive ideas and observations on a range of subjects are brought to light in a single, readable volume. Whether a lament of the loss of functionalism in the wake of modernism, a celebration of the architectural perfection embodied in the University of Virginia campus, or an appeal to architects to heed factors of climate and environment in their designs, Fitch's essays are both provocative and pragmatic and always deeply rooted in the human element. In the face of contemporary concerns such as suburban sprawl, energy expenditure, and environmental degradation, Fitch's writings resonate today more than ever.
Review
"Preservationists (and others) should take a breather from their daily tasks and read this book. They'll learn where they came from and might be heading." Architectural Record
Review
"Fitch's incisive ideas and keen observations are brought to light in a single, readable volume." Engineering News-Record
Review
"[A] welcome resource for the study of Fitch's wide-ranging contributions to architecture and preservation." Traditional Building
Review
"[E]rudite, thoughtfully composed essays... . Recommended." L. M. Bliss, San Diego State University
Review
"[A] remarkable individual whose ideas merit this scholarly edition...[A] single, readable volume defining the range and integrity of Fitch's philosophy." Choice
Synopsis
In this anthology of his writings, spanning over sixty years of his professional career, Fitch's incisive ideas and observations on a range of subjects are brought to light in a single, readable volume. Whether a lament of the loss of functionalism in the wake of modernism, a celebration of the architectural perfection embodied in the University of Virginia campus, or an appeal to architects to heed factors of climate and environment in their designs, Fitch's essays are both provocative and pragmatic and always deeply rooted in the human element. In the face of contemporary concerns such as suburban sprawl, energy expenditure, and environmental degradation, Fitch's writings resonate today more than ever.
Synopsis
Revered as the father of historic preservation in the United States, architect James Marston Fitch was hailed by the at the time of his death in 2000 as "an architect whose writings and teachings helped transform historic preservation from a dilettante's pastime into a vigorous, broadly based cultural movement."
About the Author
Martica Sawin, critic and art historian, pioneered studies of Wolfgang Paalen’s art and writing in the 1940s and demonstrated its significant influence in her important book, Surrealism in Exile and the Beginning of the New York School.