Authenticity
Mr. Trump was elected to shake things up and challenge the political establishment. And to many of his core supporters, his incendiary dog whistles, bullhorn attacks and nonstop flouting of “political correctness” remain energizing symbols of authenticity. – David Axelrod, “Let Trump Destroy Trump” New York Times, Sept. 11, 2019
What’s authentic anymore?
If you haven’t asked yourself that question lately, then you haven’t been following the news, or bought groceries, or ordered “ethnic” cuisine, or visited (without necessarily learning from) Las Vegas.
Reality and fantasy, honesty and dishonesty, openness and subterfuge increasingly meet at a fuzzy border. We are all looking for clarity and having trouble finding it. The word that best describes the elusive quality – the thing we’re really looking for – is authenticity: something we can bank on.
In this issue we try to unravel some of the possible connections between authenticity and architecture. It’s not a new challenge, but it’s one that seems especially critical in today’s post-truth world.
Authenticity
For most of its history, architecture had no need to concern itself with authenticity. “Architecture,” in the early days, consisted of buildings intended to convey a sense of importance. If that meant borrowing from earlier styles, so be it.
Authenticity and Creative Invention
The dictionary definition of “authentic” starts with words like “of undisputed origin” and “genuine,” but it soon gets involved with techniques and schools of thought. I do not find any of this very helpful, especially when it comes to authenticity in architecture.
On Authenticity in Architecture and Space
I n 2015, the ninth-century Castle of Matrera in Villamartín, Spain underwent a significant restoration. The walls of the impressive castle had all but collapsed and the firm Carquero Arquitectura was tasked with revitalizing and remaking the building.
Being True to Oneself
Recently, I visited the original Rosetta Stone at the British Museum. It occupies a large glass case, roped off to stop the intrigued viewer from getting too close. Nearby is a replica stone, reconstructed to represent the original form of the stone. You can run your fingers along the writing, and interact with others who marvel at its language insights. Is the Rosetta Stone reconstruction authentic?
Locations - Authenticity and Bogus Castles
A discussion of authenticity can lead down numerous lanes, and many are worth exploring.