- Conference
La forme et le vivant by Gilles Clément – Brussels (Belgium)
The form and the living
Gardens, parks and public spaces conform to rules of composition that mark the period in which they were designed. In our society, building these territories places form at the centre of all composition, by giving it as much architectural strength as symbolic strength. In all cases, the aim is to express an idea of the ‘best’, to evoke the notion of a paradise from which the garden draws its name. The idea of ‘best’ changes with time. The message conveyed at the heart of the garden takes on a new form each time. What is today’s message? If it refers to living things, it may be that form, as a principle of design of open spaces, is no longer the medium capable of conveying this message. How can we adapt to a territory in which life is forever inventing?
Fondation CIVA
Rue de l’Ermitage 55
1050 Bruxelles