ARTFUL ARCHITECTURE: The Getty Center and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Childhood Education, Spring 2005 by Maldonado, Nancy S, Winick, Mariann P

ARTFUL ARCHITECTURE: The Getty Center and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. 2003. 29 Minutes. DVD/VIDEO.

This two-part program depicts the work of architects Richard Meier, of the Getty Center in Los Angeles, and Frank Gehry, who designed the Guggenheim, Bilbao, Spain. The Getty Center houses special collections of photographs, including the work of Julia Margaret Cameron; manuscripts dating back to medieval and Renaissance times; and a worldclass renowned art preservation program. Viewers can see how works of art that are sent to the Getty Center undergo a lengthy process of restoration, as they are retouched, cleaned, and reframed. The Center sponsors an educational outreach program in neighboring high schools and elementary schools and 32 national sites. Children can participate in art programs that include neighborhood studies and explorations of master art pieces, and teachers have an opportunity to use art with children at all grade levels.

The unique Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, made of limestone and titanium, resembles an abstract boat. The boat style reflects the historical background of Bilbao, a significant trading port in Spain. The museum's structure of large spaces and enclaves works well for displaying large works of art, including metal structures that weigh over 40 tons. An interview with architect Gehry is informative.

Extensions: Extensions could include development of restoration skills (e.g., use of scanners to restore and repair family pictures), study of architecture and architects, and redesigning one's school.