CUAAA x CCAU Presents: The Modern Eye

A dialogue across cultural and generational boundary

The architectural journey of Chang Chao Kang (張肇康) represents a significant intersection of Eastern and Western cultural influences, reflecting the complexities of cross-cultural dialogue in architecture. This forum explores the historical context of Chang’s work, emphasizing the synthesis of traditional Chinese elements with Modernist architectural practices rooted in Western ideologies.

Exhibition

Date Jan 9, 2025 (Thursday)

Time 5pm – 7pm

Location Atrium, LSK Building, School of Architecture, CUHK

Language: English

Target Audience:

Architects and designers

Students, alumni, and educators

Cultural experts, historians and scholars

Forum Objectives: Across Generations and Cultures

This open forum aims to explore the rich architectural legacy of Chang Chao Kang (張肇康), focusing on his unique ability to bridge Eastern and Western cultural influences while fostering intergenerational dialogue within the architectural community.

As a mentor, Chang’s significantly bridged the generational gap in architectural thought, emphasizing that architecture transcends mere profession to embody a commitment to cultural expression and societal needs. His teachings have influenced subsequent generations to explore the interplay between local identity and global trends.

Further, Chang's legacy is reflected in his ability to inspire future architects to pursue innovative solutions using modern materials and building techniques. His work demonstrates a deep engagement with concrete, steel, and glass through modular design principles influenced by the Bauhaus movement. This approach enabled efficient construction methods and provided significant adaptability in spatial configurations.

His work encourages a reevaluation of how architecture can serve as a medium for innovation in cultural and generational dialogues, fostering an understanding that transcends geographical and temporal boundaries.

Background & Context

Chang was born in 1922 in Guangdong, China, and later educated in the United States, where he was exposed to the principles of modernist architecture. His career unfolded during a pivotal time when China was grappling with its identity amidst rapid modernisation and Western influence. The architectural landscape of post-war Taiwan, where Chang made substantial contributions, was characterized by a desire to establish a national identity while integrating global architectural trends.

Chang's work is characterized by his ability to merge traditional Chinese aesthetics with Western modernism, as exemplified in his designs for institutions like Tunghai University. He integrates elements of traditional Chinese courtyard houses with modern construction techniques, honoring cultural heritage while addressing contemporary functional needs. This synthesis creates spaces that resonate with both local and global narratives.

Chang’s architecture fosters a dialogue between East and West, raising important questions about cultural identity and expression. In response to the dominance of Western styles, many Chinese architects, including Chang, sought to redefine their cultural identity through architecture. His work exemplifies the coexistence of Eastern philosophies with Western methodologies, enriching architectural discourse.

Call for Speakers

Through Pecha Kucha presentations and roundtable discussions, participants will engage with Chang’s work and its implications for contemporary architecture. We welcome submissions on:

Roundtable 1 – Returning to Origin

Discussion on the interaction between Eastern and Western architectural practices from pre- to post- modern periods, particularly in relation to Chang's work. This roundtable will provide insights and reflect on how architectural practices can serve as a bridge between Eastern and Western principles, enhancing discussions on the role of design in expressing cultural identity.

Roundtable 2 – An understanding in time

Discussion on the design and architectural movements and figures that emerged around Chang’s period, delineating a larger picture of the influencing ideas and ideas that he had influenced. Also, this roundtable will explore innovative educational and mentorship models to help a new generation of architects navigate the complex and changing landscapes of architecture in the future.

Each roundtable will include speakers from various generations, allowing for the transfer of knowledge and fostering collective reflections on the evolution of architectural thought and practice. The roundtables will act as a platform for emerging architects to engage with seasoned professionals and scholars.