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Symposium, Aachen

Event: Rethinking Mies. Positions on modernity in the 21st century

AACHEN (DE) - Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was born in Aachen in 1886. On the occasion of the 125th anniversary of his birthday, Aachen Fenster e.V. and the Department of Theory of Architecture at RWTH Aachen University will jointly host an international conference. By determining new, yet sustainable ties between technology and aesthetics, as well as between ideas and artefacts, Mies van der Rohe defined a path leading to architectural modernity. The works of Mies have been documented, published, and displayed in countless exhibitions. As major references they stand apart from the rapid change of attitudes and stylistic preferences.

The Aachen symposium on Mies is not meant to be a hagiographical laudation on the person, the work or its reception. 'Rethinking Mies' will rather provide opportunities to understand the essence of Miesian thought and its relation to the modern movement as well as to contemporary practices of architecture. In dialogue with eminent personalities who are contributing to the promotion of contemporary architecture and its theories, we want to re-examine Miesian key principles. Are these principles 'classical' and of timeless validity? Are they still a stimulating source for new visions and interpretations? How does Mies's legacy relate to different cultural contexts? Does his memorable oeuvre still engender current debates, attitudes and building activities?

As a transdisciplinary discourse, the symposium's lectures and panels will be divided into five thematic sessions:

Ingenious Architecture – On Technical and Aesthetic Standards
Mies Mimesis – Models and Imitations in Modern Contexts
Beyond the Border – Architecture and Other Arts
Iconic Architecture – Mies and the Images of Modernity
Open Spaces – On Modern Landscapes

The symposium will be the prelude to an ongoing investigation on Mies van der Rohe's work and thought. The contributions to the symposium will be published and displayed in an exhibition. For more information and to register visit: www.mies2011.com

Friday | 7 October | 2011 | Germany | RWTH Aachen