Francesca, Jencks

In reviewing the canons of postmodernism, a consistent theme prevails. This theme is the synergistic use of both old and new methodical elements in stylistic creation. The extent and manner to which each is employed constitutes a unique facet of the postmodern experience. Particularly in the realm of the visual arts, we see both the coalescence and juxtaposition of classical and modern components involved in artistic fabrication. The aesthetics of such traditional and unconventional practices are characterized by several guiding principles. To begin with, there is the amalgamation of various cultural tastes within the coalescence of several languages to render effective communication with a vast audience. This principle is known as radical eclecticism. Jeck’s contends that the language of radical eclecticism is somewhat essential to the success of an art gallery. By means of incorporating a variety of stylistic influences, a broad spectrum of viewers can enjoy a subjective aesthetic experience. Moreover, architectural feats of the postmodern era are often typified by a common intermingling of form and function. Jenck’s term for such a combination is “urbane urbanism”. This constructional aim seeks to harmonize both the sophisticated visual appeal of a modern city with the essential transportation for its respectively dense population. In addition, as urbane urbanism promotes harmony between art and architecture there is an increasingly evident contrast between the two. Jenck’s discussion of multivalence sheds light upon this undesirable juxtaposition. A multivalent architectural feat transcends its functional utilization by means of achieving a cohesive unity of aesthetic elements. In summation, through understanding such principles as radical eclecticism, urbane urbanism, and multivalence one can attain the fundamental literacy of the postmodern experience.