Customer Reviews

Tadao Ando : The Colours of Light

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The value of this book largely depends on how familiar you are with Ando's work. For example, if you have read articles about his Water Temple from architectural magazines, it is really nice to zoom in and take a close look at several details shown in this book. On the other hand, if you don't know Water Temple project, it will be hard for you to catpure the overall structure of this incredible building from this book. Simply put, this book focuses more on photography and details rather than overall structure. You need to study these projects in order to appreciate the details. Of course, the pictures are really nice.

The sublime architecture of Ando, delivered on a haunting polychromatic plate by R. Pare. The photos discover many of the wonderful uses of space and form Ando masters and manipulates to tame light into a force that is nearly unrivaled by any other modern architect. Certainly it makes the oft ludicrous shapes of several (ahem) "Experienced" LA-types appear clumsy and banal (Basque'ing in their own glory perhaps?). Most wonderful is the way in which he can make one look at the 'ordinary' materials used (exposed concrete, etc.), and focus on the forms themselves; or better, to enjoy the materials in their place. Why a '9' rather than a perfect score? Though less artistic, I would have enjoyed a few more full-shots along with the other photos to better put each structure into a perspective understandable by those of us unable to visit the sites in person.

Beautiful little portfolio showcasing some of Tadao Ando's best known work. Richard Pare's photographs are excellent. The book's design is also very elegant in its minimalism. A must have.

I became interested in Tadeo Ando's architecture when I visited Venice to go to the Biennale. This little book is a gem and there are other more expanded versions available.

If you have a slither of appreciation for the finer things on this planet, you definately should not pass up the opportunity to own this title. A book that left me speechless and I mean that!! - 10 Stars -

Ando's work is splendidly displayed by Pare. But it would be very hard to take a bad picture of one of Tadao's buildings anyway. Great eye candy for anyone.