Indigenous and Latino architects, or Latinex if you prefer, have played a vital role in shaping the field of architecture and society. Their contributions span a rich history, extending from the pre-Columbian civilizations of Mesoamerica and the Caribbean, through the colonial periods influenced by Spain and Portugal, to the modern and contemporary eras marked by independence and globalization.
Architects of Indigenous and Latinx backgrounds have made a lasting impact on the world through iconic and influential creations, such as:
- The pyramids of Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Tikal, and other ancient cities. These structures stand as testaments to the advanced knowledge and skills of the Maya, Aztec, and other indigenous cultures, encompassing astronomy, mathematics, engineering, and art.
- The cathedrals, monasteries, palaces, and plazas gracing colonial capitals like Mexico City, Lima, Cuzco, Quito, and Havana. These architectural wonders embody the fusion of European and native styles and techniques in religious and civic structures.
- The 20th-century modernist masterpieces by visionaries like Luis Barragán, Oscar Niemeyer, Lina Bo Bardi, Carlos Raúl Villanueva, Clorindo Testa, and Rogelio Salmona. Their designs, expressive and innovative, reflect their cultural identity and social vision.
- The contemporary creations of leaders in the 21st century, such as Tatiana Bilbao, Alejandro Aravena, Fernando Romero, Elizabeth de Portzamparc, Mauricio Rocha, Carla Juaçaba, and others. They tackle the challenges and opportunities of sustainability, urbanization, technology, and diversity in their projects.
These celebrated pre- and post-colonial designers have left a profound impact, serving as sources of inspiration for architects worldwide, including notable figures like Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, Richard Meier, Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster, Renzo Piano, and many more. Their contributions have earned them prestigious awards and honors, such as the Pritzker Prize, with recipients like Rafael Moneo in 1996, Souto de Moura in 2011, and Alejandro Aravena in 2016. Additionally, they’ve been recognized with accolades like the Praemium Imperiale, awarded to Oscar Niemeyer in 2004 and Ricardo Legorreta in 2011, as well as the AIA Gold Medal, which has been bestowed upon luminaries such as Luis Barragán in 1976, César Pelli in 1995, and Santiago Calatrava in 2005, among others.
In conclusion, the legacy of Hispanic and Latinx architects stands as a source of immense pride and boundless inspiration for both the architectural profession and society at large. Their enduring history of excellence and innovation is a treasure that warrants not only recognition but also a jubilant celebration.
Source: https://www.acsa-arch.org/resource/where-are-my-people-hispanic-latinx-in-architecture/