Female Pioneers of Modernism

The objective of this lecture/excercise is to provide a comprehensive examination of selected female designers' contribution to the modern era. The focus is onLilly Reich (1885–1947), Eileen Gray (1887–1976), Margarete Schütte Lihotzky (1897–2000) and Charlotte Perriand (1903–1999). We will discuss the intricacies of their professional practices and look deeper to the contextual factors that have influenced their lives and careers. The course examines education and working conditions as well as projects of these architects and designers, and also raises critical questions about their reputations within an international context.

The lecture is designed as a block event, with short excursions to the museum planned. Successful participation requires attendance at all sessions, participation in discussions and a 20-minute presentation on a predetermined topic. By the end of the semester, a written essay on this tipic is required. The topics for the presentations will be assigned in the first seminar session and announced in advance.

Participation in all seminar sessions, contribution to discussions, 20-minute presentation and written essay on the same topic.

The topics for the presentations will be assigned during the first seminar session on 13 March. The written essays are to be submitted during the semester break.