Architect Daniel Libeskind
http://thedianerehmshow.org/shows/2011-08-18/architect-daniel-libeskind
On September eleventh, ten years after the World Trade Center attack, politicians and relatives of the victims will gather again in New York. This time, they'll meet in a memorial garden, complete with water cascades in the footprint of the original Twin Towers. It's the first completed section of the redeveloped World Trade Center site. In 2003, Daniel Libeskind's firm was chosen to design a new master plan for the site. The famed architect talks with Diane about why the project reaffirms his belief in democracy.
Guests
Daniel Libeskind
architect, master planner for the World Trade Center site and author of the memoir, "Breaking Ground."
Comments
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Dan came up with a draing design, which seemes to have been substantially changed because of ecnomic and politicl pressures. Would be itneresting to hear him describe his experiences in seekin to present an artisitic vision in the snake pit of Manhatten real estate investors.
What's the matter with leaving it as a memorial? Does everything have to be commoditized and monetized?
While I find the memorial itself visually stunning, it also communicates deep sadness to me -- which certainly may be appropriate. However, often memorials are used to inspire and lift the spirits of viewers. The draining of water into a seemingly deep abyss is a very depressing image.
I also wonder if anyone has voiced safety concerns? While I have obviously not seen it in person, it LOOKS as if it would be quite easy to get into the pools.
Daniel two dear friends Bev and John Titus lost their dear daughter Alicia Titus who was a stewardess on United Airlines 175 flight that flew into one the Trade towers on 9/11. They led the protest against the invasion of Iraq in New York in early Fed of 2003 with other 9/11 families against the invasion. While they do not support violence in any way....They promote looking deeply into the REASONS for the attack, and deep forgiveness.
How have you incorporated these qualities and concerns into your design?
Reasons stated for the attack.
1. US support for brutal dicatators in that region of the world
2. US uncondtional support for Israel no matter how many illegal settlements they build, how many Palestinians they kill etc
3. US military bases on Muslim holy lands
Do you in any way look at these issues?
good point.
Listen to how often this guy brings up the holocaust. Six times so far
How do you incorporate deep reflection in your design?
Although I appreciate Mr. Libeskind success in this project, I have dubious feelings about the construction of these building. Personally I prefer the two beams of lights that have been used for the past few years.
I'm a native New Yorker, and grew up watching the Twin Towers being built. Later I taught exercise classes for a few companies in the buildings, and also performed as a dancer in the Winter Garden Atrium, so my relationship to the buildings are personal. I'm eager to see the results of this project. However the politics and money involved diminishes the profound impression 9/11 left on me.
Will the construction really have the same impact, and integrate the spiritual component that millions of people experienced, if the buildings itself will be full of businesses?
It is highly inappropriate for Libeskind to keep bringing up his parents Holocaust survivor issue. This memorial should not have anything to do with that horrific tragedy. What an opportunist to keep bringing that up. You can bet that this using him to keep bringing that issue up was not overlooked in the selection process.
Instead of looking at some of the reasons stated for the attack and reflecting on those reasons Libeskind is using his position to bring up the Holocaust. So inappropriate and opportunistic.
he brought up the Holocaust 9 times in one hour
I have no problem with anything about the new WTC tower or anything about the memorial. However, I think a great opportunity was missed. There should be a 3-part memorial, one part at each crash site, and should be designated as national places of remembrance. These sites are as sacred as Gettysburg or Pearl Harbor.
On 9/11 St Nicholas Orthodox Church, immediately next door to one of the towers or between the towers, was pulverized. This is a historicd church that has stood on that spot since the 1850s. It housed icons donated by the Czar of Russia. Many office workers in the area when there to pray daily. And now the Port Authority is preventing them from rebuilding it, although not having any problem with a Muslim center to be built nearby. The parish/diocese is suing the Port Authority over this issue. What plan do you have to include St Nicholas in your plan?