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ma yansong 'between (global) modernity and (local) tradition', madrid spain
all images courtesy of MAD architects
ma yansong of beijing-based MAD architects, will exhibit 'between (global) modernity and (local) tradition' a diverse collection of his work at the museo ICO in madrid, spain. the pieces on show will bring together projects such as the 'city & art museum' in ordos, and the ‘absolute towers’ located in a suburb outside of toronto, canada.
he creates worlds with an architectural focus on emotion and context, provoking the virtual which explores a new dimension in contemporary culture.
'our work is an attitude, a posture towards architecture, towards society. through our work we want people to be inspired by a place through local nature, time and space. when I design a building, I close my eyes and feel as if I see a virtual world which lays half way between the city, the nature and the land. it goes from large scale to small scale. many things travel in front of my eyes; I feel them and try to find the way to express my feelings.' - ma yansong

model of 'superstar', self-sustaining city, 2008

models in exhibition space
(left) 'urban forest' model
(right) 'superstar' model

model of solar-powered 'floating' museum, 2010
The last model is not labeled. This architectural model is quite beautiful and can stand on its own as an expression of ‘Design Art’. Design Art places its emphasis on the visual component of the design and not on the physical function. This model does that. Could this design be translated into a real world architectural expression and have a viable physical function?