Alex Schweder is an American artist and architect known for his innovative and conceptual works that often explore the intersections of architecture, performance art, and social engagement. He is particularly recognized for his "performance architecture," which involves creating inhabitable structures that respond to human interaction and challenge conventional ideas about space and design.
Schweder's installations often involve structures that can change shape or function based on the movement and actions of the people within them. These structures might rotate, shift, or transform in response to the occupants' activities, blurring the lines between architecture, sculpture, and performance art.
One of his notable works is the "ReActor" project, in which he collaborated with artist Ward Shelley. "ReActor" is a rotating, habitable structure balanced on a single column, and it responds to the shifting weights of the two occupants inside. This project not only explores the physical aspects of architecture but also delves into concepts of balance, collaboration, and the relationship between people and their environment.
Alex Schweder's work challenges traditional notions of static architecture and often invites viewers to question their relationship with the built environment. Keep in mind that my knowledge is based on information available up until September 2021, and there might have been developments in his work or career since that time.
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A list of some of the works of Alex Schweder
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, here are a few notable works by Alex Schweder:
"ReActor" (2016): Created in collaboration with artist Ward Shelley, "ReActor" is a rotating, habitable structure that sits atop a single column. It responds to the movement and activities of its occupants, challenging the traditional notions of architectural stability and encouraging a dynamic interaction between people and their living space.
"The Hotel Rehearsal" (2009): This project involved the creation of an architectural installation that resembled a hotel room suspended high above the ground. Schweder lived in the installation for a period of time, engaging in performative actions and interactions within the confined space to explore concepts of privacy, hospitality, and architectural adaptation.
"Performance Architecture: When Form Becomes Attitude" (2011): This is a series of projects and installations that exemplify Schweder's approach to performance architecture. These works challenge the fixed nature of architecture by introducing elements of movement, transformation, and interaction.
"Stilt House" (2012): As part of the "Scavenge, Build, Repeat" exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, Schweder created a stilted structure that combined living quarters with an art studio. The piece was an exploration of adaptive reuse and self-sufficiency in response to a changing urban environment.
"Flatland" (2014): In collaboration with architect Jennifer Dunlop Fletcher, Schweder designed a structure that could be collapsed and expanded to transform from a two-dimensional facade to a three-dimensional living space. This project questioned the boundary between architecture and art.
Please note that Alex Schweder's work is often conceptual and dynamic, focusing on the intersections of architecture, performance, and social engagement. There might have been developments or new projects since my last update, so I recommend checking more recent sources for the latest information about his work and projects.
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The Website: http://www.alexschweder.com/
and The Wasserman projects: https://wassermanprojects.com/alex-schweder/
Photo: Kohler Co
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