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Oscar Niemeyer

64quotes

Oscar Niemeyer


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Full Name and Common Aliases


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Oscar Ribeiro de Almeida Niemeyer Soares Filho was commonly known as Oscar Niemeyer.

Birth and Death Dates


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Born on December 15, 1907, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He passed away on December 5, 2012, at the age of 104.

Nationality and Profession(s)


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Brazilian architect, urban planner, and designer. Niemeyer is widely regarded as one of the most influential architects of the 20th century.

Early Life


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Growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Niemeyer was exposed to the city's vibrant cultural scene from a young age. His early fascination with architecture was fueled by his father, who encouraged him to experiment with building models and designs. After completing his primary education, Niemeyer enrolled at the Escola Nacional de Belas Artes (National School of Fine Arts) in Rio, where he began studying drawing and painting.

Career


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Niemeyer's early architectural career was marked by a series of unfulfilling positions with various government agencies. However, his fortunes changed when he was approached by Le Corbusier, the renowned Swiss-French architect, who had arrived in Brazil to work on a new capital city project. This collaboration not only broadened Niemeyer's horizons but also influenced his design style, introducing him to the principles of modernist architecture.

Major Accomplishments


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Niemeyer's most significant contributions to Brazilian architecture include:

Designing the National Congress Building in Brasília: Considered one of his masterpieces, this imposing structure has become an iconic representation of Brazilian modernism.
 Creating the Cathedral of Brasília: A striking example of modernist design, its dramatic roof and soaring arches have made it a beloved landmark.
Developing the concept for the city of Brasília: As the chief architect of the new capital city, Niemeyer played a pivotal role in shaping its infrastructure, public buildings, and urban planning.

Notable Works or Actions


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Some of his notable works include:

The Ministry of Education and Culture Building (1960)
The Presidential Palace (1970)
 The Cathedral of Brasília (1970)

Niemeyer's commitment to modernist principles was not limited to his architecture. He also designed furniture, including the iconic "Moon Chair," which has become a symbol of Brazilian design.

Impact and Legacy


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Oscar Niemeyer's influence on modern architecture is undeniable. His innovative use of curves and fluid lines has inspired generations of architects worldwide. Brasília itself has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, with many of Niemeyer's designs contributing to its designation.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


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Niemeyer's quotes often reflect his passion for architecture and its potential to improve the human experience. He once said, "Architecture is not just about designing buildings; it's about creating a sense of community." This quote encapsulates his commitment to using architecture as a tool for social change.

Throughout his illustrious career, Niemeyer received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to architecture. Despite his passing in 2012, his legacy continues to inspire architects and designers around the world.

Niemeyer's enduring influence is a testament to the power of innovative design and its ability to shape the built environment. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern society, Niemeyer's vision for using architecture as a force for good remains an essential reminder of the impact that thoughtful design can have on our lives.

Quotes by Oscar Niemeyer

Oscar Niemeyer's insights on:

Form follows beauty.
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Form follows beauty.
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Right angles don’t attract me. Nor straight, hard and inflexible lines created by man.
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Right angles don’t attract me. Nor straight, hard and inflexible lines created by man.
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When students leave college, they are like children who know nothing about the problems of life, and don’t have a political stance.
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When students leave college, they are like children who know nothing about the problems of life, and don’t have a political stance.
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Architecture does not change anything. It’s always on the side of the wealthy. The important thing is to believe that it can make life better.
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Architecture does not change anything. It’s always on the side of the wealthy. The important thing is to believe that it can make life better.
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My ambition has always been to reduce a building’s support to a minimum. The more we diminish supporting structures, the more audacious and important the architecture is. That has been my life’s work.
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My ambition has always been to reduce a building’s support to a minimum. The more we diminish supporting structures, the more audacious and important the architecture is. That has been my life’s work.
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Today, architecture is invention. It isn’t enough to just be rational – It must also be beautiful.
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Today, architecture is invention. It isn’t enough to just be rational – It must also be beautiful.
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I was attracted by the curve – the liberated, sensual curve suggested by the possibilities of new technology yet so often recalled in venerable old baroque churches.
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I was attracted by the curve – the liberated, sensual curve suggested by the possibilities of new technology yet so often recalled in venerable old baroque churches.
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Camus says in ‘The Stranger’ that reason is the enemy of imagination. Sometimes you have to put reason aside and make something beautiful.
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Camus says in ‘The Stranger’ that reason is the enemy of imagination. Sometimes you have to put reason aside and make something beautiful.
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The architect’s role is to fight for a better world, where he can produce an architecture that serves everyone and not just a group of privileged people.
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The architect’s role is to fight for a better world, where he can produce an architecture that serves everyone and not just a group of privileged people.
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For me beauty is valued more than anything – the beauty that is manifest in a curved line or in an act of creativity.
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For me beauty is valued more than anything – the beauty that is manifest in a curved line or in an act of creativity.
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