‘Studio 360’: Architecture of the Absurd

Studio 360

When he was the president of Boston University, John Silber dealt with a lot of building projects, and he’s been known to rail against excesses in architectural cost and design. He has titled his new book, "Architecture of the Absurd: How “Genius” Disfigured a Practical Art."

Frank Gehry is America’s best known architect because he’s devoted himself to experimenting with new forms. Nobody else’s buildings look anything like his.

Silber tells Kurt about the first time he walked into architect Frank Gehry’s Stata Center at MIT. He sure was mad!

Silber: "If anyobdy thinks that Gehry is not engaged in a con-job, they haven’t looked at that building."

PRI’s Peabody Award-winning "Studio 360 with Kurt Andersen" from WNYC is public radio’s smart and surprising guide to what’s happening in pop culture and the arts. Each week, Kurt Andersen introduces you to the people who are creating and shaping our culture. Life is busy — so let "Studio 360" steer you to the must-see movie this weekend, the next book for your nightstand, or the song that will change your life.

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