Sibyl Moholy-Nagy: Architecture, Modernism and its Discontents

Sibyl Moholy-Nagy was a prominent architectural critic of the mid-century who questioned the heroic,masculinist approach of modernist architecture. This book explores the paradoxical aspects of the relationship between modernism and feminism and analyzes the significance of Moholy-Nagy's life and work. It is a valuable resource for scholars interested in including the contributions of women in their discussions of architecture and modernism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Sibyl Moholy-Nagy, a prominent figure in mid-century architectural culture, played a significant role in the realm of modernism and modernity. As one of the few female architectural critics of her time, she emerged as an early advocate questioning the trajectory of modernist architecture. She debunked the myths surrounding renowned masters such as Mies, Le Corbusier, and Gropius, challenging their heroic and masculinist approach. Despite her valuable contributions, Moholy-Nagy's writings and work remain relatively understudied and have largely been excluded from the mainstream discourse on modernism.

In this book, we delve into the significance of Moholy-Nagy's life and work, exploring the paradoxical relationship between modernism and feminism. Published as part of the Bloomsbury Studies in Modern Architecture series, our aim is to bring to light the overlooked contributions of significant figures in modernism. Through a comprehensive examination of Moholy-Nagy's work and legacy, we also examine the roles of gender and the evolving nature of modernism as it traversed from Europe to America.

Our study is based on a rich array of personal papers, diaries, letters, and lecture notes, as well as personal interviews with relatives, colleagues, and students. These sources provide invaluable insights into Moholy-Nagy's thoughts, experiences, and contributions to the architectural field. By examining her work in the context of her personal life and experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of her unique perspective and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated profession.

This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars interested in incorporating the contributions of women into their discussions of architecture and modernism. It offers a comprehensive analysis of Moholy-Nagy's life and work, shedding light on her significant contributions to the field while also raising important questions about gender, modernity, and the evolving nature of architectural discourse. By exploring the paradoxical aspects of the relationship between modernism and feminism, this book contributes to a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of the architectural heritage of the mid-century.

Weight: 628g
Dimension: 233 x 158 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350166172