Title: I.M. Pei : a profile in American architecture /
Authors: Wiseman, Carter.
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams,
Year: 2001
Subjects: Pei, I. M., Biography.; Pei, I. M., Criticism and interpretation.; Pei, I. M.,; Architects United States; Architecture United States History; Architects United States Biography
Abstract: "In 1990, I.M. Pei: A Profile in American Architecture was published as the first full-length study of the life and work of this extraordinary artist. The revised edition includes a chapter on Pei's work since 1990, when he established a new relationship with his firm that enabled him to pursue more small scale, personal commissions. Illustrated from the rich archives of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, the book charts Pei's progress from his birth in China in 1917 through every milestone in his career to his preeminent position today. The author, noted architecture critic Carter Wiseman, has supplemented extensive and meticulous research with many hours of conversation with Pei, his family, his associates, and his clients. Wiseman focuses his text on the buildings of special relevance to Pei's career, and, whether discussing the Kennedy Library, the Meyerson Symphony Center, or the Louvre, he carefully considers the project's architectural, sociological, and personal dimensions. One sees how Pei's artistic vision has emerged, how he has deftly met the demands of each new situation and client, and how his charismatic personality has affected events." "Scores of color photographs present Pei's buildings in all their splendid variety - from the urban grandeur of the Dallas City Hall to the daring innovation of the Bank of China skyscraper. Dozens of revealing drawings, plans, and models as well as personal and documentary photographs make this volume the only comprehensive visual record of Pei's work."--Jacket.
Contents: An orderly enigma -- China, MIT, and Harvard (1917-48): the shaping of an architect -- The Zeckendorf Days (1948-60): learning to think big -- The National Center for Atmospheric Research (1961-67): the journey from planning to form -- The John F. Kennedy Library (1964-79): gateway to fame -- The Dallas Municipal Administration Center (1966-77): symbol for a city -- The John Hancock Tower (1966-76): a near fatal beauty -- The East Building of the National Gallery (1968-78): the power of art, taste, and money -- The Fragrant Hill Hotel (1979-82): you can't quite go home again -- The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center (1979-86): The wages of politics and technology -- Le Grand Louvre (1983-89): The battle of the pyramid -- 1989: "the year of Pei" -- Bridges across time (1990-2001).