In 1954, a satirical magazine in China criticized the nation’s architecture. It featured cartoons of strange buildings, mocking the formalist styles borrowed from the West. The magazine playfully highlighted structures that looked odd together, prompting the question: “Why not embrace traditional Chinese designs?”
This notion of architectural identity is explored in an exciting exhibition called How Modern, taking place at the Canadian Centre for Architecture in Montreal. The exhibition looks at how modern architecture evolved in the early years of Communist China, from 1949 to the 1980s. Contrary to popular belief, this period wasn’t just dull and uniform. Instead, it was a time of creativity, innovation, and discussions on style amid socialist ideals.
Curated by Shirley Surya and featuring insights from architectural historian Li Hua, the exhibit uses both official records and rare private collections. Some of these documents were smuggled out of China years ago, making them a unique glimps into a rich history of design experimentation.
During this era, architecture wasn’t merely about aesthetics; it was a tool for nation-building. As China’s current president, Xi Jinping, emphasizes a return to traditional architecture, it’s interesting to see how the governmental campaigns have evolved. Under Mao Zedong, significant projects like the “Ten Great Buildings” were completed at an unprecedented pace, reflecting a blend of classical styles, Soviet influences, and modern functionalism.
That shift in focus resulted in a style that mixed grand Soviet designs with Chinese cultural elements, leading to impressive structures like the Great Hall of the People and the Workers’ Stadium. Over 1,000 architects collaborated to build these within a year, showcasing how quickly the country aimed to establish its identity.
Architects faced constant changes in design directives. For instance, the Sanlihe government office in Beijing originally showcased traditional elements, but halfway through construction, government directives shifted. The slogan “Function, economy, and (when possible) beauty” became the new mantra, leading to a simpler, more utilitarian design.
As the 1960s rolled in, architects faced more scrutiny. The Cultural Revolution led to a movement that sidelined professionals, inviting ordinary workers to join in the design process. Unfortunately, this often led to poorer-quality structures.
Despite its historical significance, the exhibition does not shy away from controversial topics. It portrays both the architectural achievements and the political climate that shaped decisions—highlighting how crowded spaces and resource shortages led to innovative solutions, including the use of bamboo scaffolding, which is now facing decline in Hong Kong.
The exhibition reveals fascinating stories, like the Third Front, a secret government campaign to build military and industrial sites in remote areas. Artistic representations from the late 1970s showcase the bold structures that emerged during this time.
With rising global discussions on sustainable architecture, the lessons from this period offer valuable insights. Scarcity pushed innovation, leading to eco-friendly building practices that could be beneficial for today’s environmental challenges.
How Modern is more than just an exhibit; it’s a trip through time, showing how architecture reflects the evolving narrative of a nation. It’s an invitation to rethink how we connect our past with our present, especially in the way we build our future. If you’re curious about architectural history, this is a journey worth taking.
For more insights on the subject, you can explore How Modern: Biographies of Architecture in China 1949–1979, running until April 5th at the Canadian Centre for Architecture.
