Marius Svaleng Andresen: Life in the New

Life in the New is a documentary film that explores the complexity of urban development and its impact on people, with the district of Novi Beograd, Belgrade, Serbia, as a backdrop. It combines interviews with residents and photographs to reveal the everyday life and poetry of the brutalist and socialist buildings of modernism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Kerber Verlag

In his captivating book, "Life in the New," Marius Svaleng Andresen delves into the intricate complexities of urban development and its profound impact on human lives. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant district of Novi Beograd, Belgrade, Serbia, this insightful exploration examines the evolving relationship between people and architecture as cities undergo rapid growth and density. Through a series of engaging interviews with the local inhabitants and stunning photographs that seamlessly blend documentary and artistic elements, "Life in the New" uncovers the hidden treasures that lie beyond the imposing facades of modernist brutalist and socialist buildings.

As the cityscape expands, architectural forms and intricate geometries gracefully recede into the background, allowing everyday life to take center stage. Through vivid narratives and poignant images, Andresen captures the essence of mundane existence, revealing its little dramas, melancholic moments, discomforts, quirks, and humor. Occasionally, however, he stumbles upon moments of pure beauty—the delicate, unpretentious poetry of the everyday that thrives amidst the grand visions of architects.

"Life in the New" is a testament to the power of observation and the ability of art to capture the human experience. It invites readers to explore the intricate connections between people, architecture, and the urban landscape, shedding light on the transformative power of design and the significance of preserving the authenticity of local cultures. This thought-provoking book serves as a reminder that cities are not merely physical spaces but vibrant ecosystems where human stories intertwine with the built environment, shaping the future of our world.

Weight: 1472g
Dimension: 247 x 308 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783735609298