Ruskin Lecture 2021: John Ruskin: Art, Architecture and the Natural World
Kellogg College, University of Oxford・37 minutes read
Dr. Jeffrey Tayak and Dr. Stephen Parisian discuss John Ruskin's impactful career, from his architectural and artistic pursuits to his influence on nature-centric design. Ruskin's emphasis on nature, craftsmanship, and societal critiques continue to resonate, shaping architectural ideals and inspiring the environmental movement.
Insights
- John Ruskin, a significant figure, embodied ideals of lifelong learning and diverse interests, which influenced his artistic and social critiques, emphasizing nature's role in inspiring art and architecture.
- Ruskin's legacy extends to advocating for principled architecture based on nature's beauty, inspiring the Garden City movement, and critiquing industrialization, resonating with contemporary environmental concerns and emphasizing the importance of leading a good life over accumulating wealth.
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Recent questions
Who are the speakers for the evening?
Dr. Jeffrey Tayak and Dr. Stephen Parisian
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Summary
00:00
"John Ruskin: Art, Architecture, and Influence"
- Dr. Jeffrey Tayak and Dr. Stephen Parisian are the speakers for the evening, with Jeffrey being an architectural historian and Stephen a cultural historian and museum director.
- Jeffrey will commence with a visual presentation on John Ruskin, followed by Stephen posing questions to him and then opening the floor for queries.
- John Ruskin, a significant figure, embodied ideals shared by Kellogg College members, emphasizing lifelong learning and a broad range of interests.
- Ruskin, raised in London by strict evangelical parents, was educated at home and later attended Christchurch in Oxford.
- Ruskin's early exposure to nature and historic buildings influenced his artistic inclinations, particularly his admiration for mountain scenery and detailed rock drawings.
- Ruskin's fascination with JMW Turner's art led him to write "Modern Painters," praising Turner's genius and emphasizing nature as the source of artistic inspiration.
- Ruskin's critical acclaim stemmed from his art and social critiques, notably disliking Baroque and contemporary art, and his marriage, though unsuccessful, influenced his artistic endeavors.
- Ruskin's interest in architecture emerged during his undergraduate years, leading to influential works like "The Seven Lamps of Architecture" and "The Stones of Venice."
- Ruskin's collaboration with architect Benjamin Woodward on the Oxford University Museum highlighted their shared belief in Gothic architecture's craftsmanship and creative input.
- Ruskin's disagreement with Woodward over the use of iron in architecture showcased his preference for showcasing craftsmanship, as seen in the museum's intricate stone carvings and ironwork.
21:05
Ruskin's Influence on Architecture and Nature
- The Saint John's College North Oxford estate features a brick house with irregular plans, a gothic exterior, and intricate carvings, possibly designed by J. Hungerford Pollen.
- Ruskin, a prominent figure, shifted focus from art to society, delivering lectures on the ideal home and inspiring the Garden City movement.
- Ruskin's emphasis on nature and domesticated gardens led to the creation of a beautiful garden at his home in Coniston, Cumbria.
- Ruskin's legacy influenced the design of Kellogg College's future gardens, aiming to blend domesticated nature with architecture.
- Ruskin's book "Unto This Last" emphasizes that true wealth lies in leading a good life, not accumulating riches.
- Ruskin's ideas stemmed from his childhood holidays in the Lake District and extensive reading, shaping his belief that great art originates from nature.
- Ruskin's "Seven Lamps of Architecture" influenced architects and individuals to appreciate true principled architecture based on nature's beauty.
- The University Museum and Keeble College in Oxford reflect Ruskin's influence, with the former embodying nature in its structure and exhibits.
- Ruskin's views on nature are not widely evident in Victorian and 20th-century Oxford architecture, except in Worcester College Chapel's interior by William Burgess.
- Ruskin's advocacy for nature and critique of industrialization resonate with the environmental movement, emphasizing the importance of organic society and the pitfalls of money worship.
41:24
Ruskin's evolving views on art and photography.
- Ruskin did not view photography as an art form but rather as a tool for aiding in creating drawings.
- He believed that true art required the creative imagination of the artist using tools like pencils and brushes, which photography lacked.
- Despite his initial reservations, Ruskin later saw the value of photography for teaching purposes.
- Ruskin supported continuing education and lifelong learning, evident in his patronage of Keller College.
- The University Museum, while aesthetically successful, faced practical challenges due to its glass roof design causing frequent repairs.
- Ruskin admired Turner for his ability to paint light and considered him a natural artist, unlike the Pre-Raphaelites.
- Ruskin's support for the Pre-Raphaelites waned after the movement declined, and he later focused on smaller-scale artists like Kate Greenway.
- Ruskin's disdain for Japanese art stemmed from his preference for detailed nature depictions, contrasting with the reproductive style of Japanese artists.
