Last Fall, Ouroussoff traveled to Iraq to document, among other things, the effect the war was having on "architecture" (brave soul, we all thought he was insane to go). I think it is worth the annoying registration (free) to read these articles that were published in December, a series of 4:
A four-part series by Los Angeles Times critic Nicolai Ouroussoff on the architectural heritage of the Iraqi capital.
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART I
A crumbling cultural history
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
First of a four-part critic's notebook on the architectural heritage of Baghdad.
December 14, 2003
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART II
When Iraq looked west
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
Only a few decades ago, Baghdad's longing to modernize drew some of the world's top architects, who began reshaping the historic city. The endeavor ended too soon.
December 14, 2003
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART III
Patron of fear
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
The architecture Saddam Hussein sponsored is a potent expression of authoritarian rule, from coercive power to aims for historical legitimacy.
December 15, 2003
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART IV
The road back
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
In this last of a four-part critic's notebook on the architectural heritage of Baghdad, the city must battle internal strife to rebuild, but it will take a spirit of openness.
December 16, 2003
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A four-part series by Los Angeles Times critic Nicolai Ouroussoff on the architectural heritage of the Iraqi capital.
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART I
A crumbling cultural history
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
First of a four-part critic's notebook on the architectural heritage of Baghdad.
December 14, 2003
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART II
When Iraq looked west
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
Only a few decades ago, Baghdad's longing to modernize drew some of the world's top architects, who began reshaping the historic city. The endeavor ended too soon.
December 14, 2003
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART III
Patron of fear
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
The architecture Saddam Hussein sponsored is a potent expression of authoritarian rule, from coercive power to aims for historical legitimacy.
December 15, 2003
IN SEARCH OF BAGHDAD - PART IV
The road back
By Nicolai Ouroussoff
In this last of a four-part critic's notebook on the architectural heritage of Baghdad, the city must battle internal strife to rebuild, but it will take a spirit of openness.
December 16, 2003
- selma 6-16-2004 6:25 pm