Conservation of Old Buildings The Essential Bridge from Yore to Future - Term Paper Example

Conservation of Old Buildings – The Essential Bridge from Yore to Future “Architecture has never been idle. Its history is more ancient than that of any other art, and its claim to being a living force has significance in every attempt to comprehend the relationship of the masses to art.” (Benjamin 1936, xv) Introduction Buildings have always been an integral part of human existence; initially as essential shelter and later as a symbol of human development and progress. Evidence of this can be seen in the way mud dwellings have evolved into huge megalithic structures and more recently, into condominiums of concrete, steel and fibre glass. As human beings evolved, so did their creations – their buildings. Does this imply ancient buildings are backward, lacking in aesthetics or obsolete in their concept, form or construction? Does this mean, then, that is it is not necessary to preserve them? This short essay shall describe the relationship that human beings have with buildings and argue that ancient buildings need to be preserved, as record points of human evolution, as well as fountains of human inspiration. Although there are some disadvantages, they can be minimized with awareness creation and implementation of self-sustaining projects. Buildings and Changes in Human Perception Miles Glendinning (undated, pp.2-5) states that the way buildings have been perceived by the society has undergone considerable changes over a period of time. Indeed, monumental buildings that have survived the ravages of time have sometimes being viewed as symbols of ugly, underdeveloped experiments of yesteryears and at other times, as symbols of national heritage. The article “Many Changes at Yale” in The New York Times dated June 9, 1895, precisely depict this point in its description of the structural changes that were to be carried out at Yale, and how some sections demanded at least certain portions of the “old brick row” and “landmarks of the university” be preserved. The other portions had already been demolished in order to give way to “magnificent piles of marbles and granite” (The New York Times 1895, 1). This gives rise to the current debate, should historic buildings be preserved or not. Why Is It Necessary to Preserve Historic Buildings It is indeed necessary to preserve historical buildings and monuments. The process of conservation of historical monuments presents at least three benefits namely: a) Monuments – To Establish Continuity from the Past Historic buildings or monuments as they are called are an “archive of authentic sources for cultural history, social history, industrial history, etc. are evidence created by man that, already according to the definition … ‘should evoke remembrance of something’” (Petzet 2003:1). Thus they are an indelible and important part of human history. They are the visible imprints of mankind that can teach or inspire the present and the future generations. This can be illustrated well with the example of the Preah Khan temple at Angkor Wat, Seim Reap, Cambodia, in South East Asia. It was built by Jayavarman VII (1181-ca. 1215) in honour of 1191 of his father (WMF Report, 1992). This marvellous construction was almost completely destroyed with dense undergrowth and trees during the civil strife in the region until the World Monuments Fund took it under its fold to restore it to its former glory. One would wonder at the technological and architectural grasp of this thirteenth century king. Clever Use of water (surrounding moat) in order to prevent the sinking of the temple in the alluvial soil (WMF Report, 1992: 20) and an ingenious design with which arched domes (corbelled arch) of the temple were constructed, in a manner very different from the curved arch techniques in vogue in Europe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angkor_Wat). But for the preservation efforts, all these details would have been lost to posterity. b) Tourism – Potential Economy Booster Michael Petzet, President of International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in his introductory lecture at the fourteenth general assembly meeting (2003) has rightly pointed out that, “As an idea that took on shape, the monument is in any case more than a tangible “object” consisting of a certain material” (p.1). As such monuments evoke memories of specific ethnic, cultural, and traditional practices to associated communities, which they would like to nurture and preserve as a part of cultural heritage. These monuments then become sites of cultural pilgrimage, attracting cultural tourists from near and far, and thereby promoting the economy of the region. Egypt and places like Machu Picchu in Peru, South America are such places that house important ancient monuments and have made tourism their central attraction with betterment of economy and commerce. Imagine Egypt before the re-discovery of its iconic Sphinx and its pyramids? The country was hardly given the recognition due to it as one of the earliest cradles of civilization. The interest of the French and the European world in the eighteenth century spearheaded waves of interest in the place a historical and cultural centre, and brought in much needed development and economic progress to the entire region (Jenson, 2009). When these places attracted the interest of people of other nations and ethnicity, their visits brings in valuable foreign exchange which is a principle boost to any economy; furthermore sustainable tourism programmes to maintain a balance between the preservation of the ancient monuments, while simultaneously allowing limited visits within a specified period with the local people as guardians and custodians of the monuments have been successfully implemented in a number of places. Thus, preservation of historical monuments is certainly an advantage, since it not only has the potential to finance its own existence, but also has the potential to improve the economy of the surrounding region with the growth of the tourism industry. c) Symbols of Human Values and Ageless Art Human emotions and values have always found their expression in some powerful way. Building tall or grand structures was one way that was commonly employed by the ancients. Some of the oldest structures were built in honour of the dead, commemorating territorial victories, offering thanksgiving to God, or as a symbol of love. The Taj Mahal in the Indian sub-continent in Asia stands out as an excellent expression of love; National Temple of Divine Providence in Warsaw (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Temple_of_Divine_Providence_in_Warsaw). Another striking example is the Statue of Liberty that was donated by the French to the United States of America (http://library.thinkquest.org/27638/statue.html) – it has ever since stood for America as a symbol of freedom, the land of liberty that opens its golden gates to the hardworking and daring entrepreuner spirit. Though not a building in the strict sense of the word, the Eiffel Tower is a fine monument, evoking memories of the advent of modernization. The 984-foot wonder was built in commemoration of the world's advancement in the fields of science and engineering, by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (http://library.thinkquest.org/27638/eiffel.html). These monuments hold in them a timeless quality, and hold the potential to inspire the generations to come. While discussing buildings as works of art, Walter Benjamin states that, “Buildings are appropriated in a twofold manner: by use and by perception – or rather, by touch and sight” (Benjamin 1936, xv). Furthermore, each monument has, explains Petzet (2003), “a spiritual message that is expressed in every monument’s and every site's own “trace” and its “aura” (p.3). And this is to be preserved for it is not merely a building, but a piece of timeless art. Overcoming Disadvantages Having presented the arguments in favour of conservation of historical monuments, one must also consider the purported shortcomings involved in the process. In this case, however, the seeming shortcomings or disadvantages of conservation of monuments can be overcome with some planning and care. Compromise on Modernization: is one of the most common arguments against conservation. However, it must be remembered that the concept of ‘modernity’ itself keeps changing with the passing generations and times. Thus, what was apprently modern some years ago, seems so out of place and odd today. Similarly, the needs of people differ with different ages and spaces, thus what may appear modern in one part of the world, may appear vulgar and commonplace or opposed to a certain mannaer of life, in another part. Take for example the image of high-rise filled Dubai, a good example of modernity. However, contrast it with traditional Tibet, where the Chinese government’s demolition of buildings in World Heritage sites in Lhasa in not viewed as steps towards modernization, and has evoked strong protests as destruction of tibetian culture (TCHRD, 2002: 1). Hence, historical buildings should be considered as being in beyond the purview of modernity. Once this is understood, then the argument of compromising on modernity shall cease to exist. Cost of Conservation: Frequently, the argument that the cost of conservation of historic buildings are prohibitive and thus it is not practical to do it anymore. A little planning, education and cooperation from the local communities can go a long way in changing the scene to a profitable, enjoyable, and more importantly fulfilling venture. As mentioned earlier, many sustainable tourism projects have been successfully implemented which redeem the costs of conservation of monuments as well as offer profitable occupations for local communities. For this to take place, persistent effort on the part of local community leaders and participation of the members si vital. Sound and Light programmes regarding the origins of the monument, the legends associated with it, what it means in the present cultural context, all these details can be illustrated to the tourist community generating jobs for the locale. Since the locals are in some way involved with the building, the autheticity of the legend shall reach the audience better, enriching the toruist experience. Local crafts can be encouraged ans sold as souvenirs and memorabilia. This shall generate additional income that may be obtained apart from the collection of entry fees into the monument, and shall improve community participation, making conservation a sustainable project. In these ways some major shortcomings in conservation can be overcome. Conclusion Buildings have always been important to human civilization. However, the question ‘whether it was worth preserving historic monuments’ does arise from time to time. Many aspects like, conservation being necessary as marks of continuity from the past, as tourism promoters, and as masterpieces of art and perpetual inspiration to human beings appear more valid. This is especially so, considering that the so called impediments to conservation like the costs involved, and hindrance to modernization can be obviated with some planning and education. Ancient buildings are a sort of bridge that connects various points in time. They are essential points without which, a part of the picture as whole will be incomplete. It may be apt to close pondering over these words of Miles Glendinning, “If we accept that all buildings are ephemeral social constructions, and that the built environment is a testament to change rather than something of enduring materiality, we can look on old buildings with a new lightness” (undated, p.5). References: Angkor Wat. Wikipedia. Online webpage last modified on 18 August 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angkor_Wat Benjamin, Walter (1936) The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction. Transcribed: by Andy Blunden 1998; proofed and corrected Feb. 2005. Retrieved on August 16, 2009 from http://www.marxists.org/reference/subject/philosophy/works/ge/benjamin.htm Eiffel Tower. http://library.thinkquest.org Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. http://library.thinkquest.org/27638/eiffel.html Glendinning, Miles (undated). “Beyond the cult of the monument” Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. pp. 1-7. http://minervapartners.typepad.com/readings/GlendinningCULT.doc Jenson, Lyle (2009). “The Story of The Sphinx” in http://sphinxegypt.com/ Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. http://sphinxegypt.com/sphinx_story.htm National Temple of Divine Providence in Warsaw. Wikipedia. Online webpage last modified on 22 July 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Temple_of_Divine_Providence_in_Warsaw Petzet, Michael (2003). “PLACE – MEMORY –MEANING: PRESERVING INTANGIBLE VALUES IN MONUMENTS AND SITES.” ICOMOS 14th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium. Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. pp.1-3. http://www.international.icomos.org/victoriafalls2003/papers/4%20%20Allocution%20P etzet.pdf Statue of Liberty. http://library.thinkquest.org Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. http://library.thinkquest.org/27638/statue.html The New York Times (1895). “Many Changes at Yale” dated June 9, 1985. Retrieved online article August 14, 2009. http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive- free/pdf?_r=1&res=9906EEDC1039E033A2575AC0A9609C94649ED7CF TCHRD - Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy (2002). “TIBET: Destruction of Old Lhasa” in Human Rights Update, April 2002, Vol. VII No. 4. Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. http://www.ahrchk.net/news/mainfile.php/ahrnews_200204/2571/ WMF (World Monuments Fund) Report (1992). PREAH KHAN CONSERVATION PROJECT HISTORIC CITY OF ANGKOR, Siem Reap, Cambodia. REPORT II PROJECT IDENTIFICATION” Online article retrieved on August 14, 2009. pp. 1-63. http://www.wmf.org/pdf/pubs_PreahKhanIIRepID.pdf Jenson http://sphinxegypt.com/sphinx_story.htm. Read More