Sexism and the Star System in Architecture Essay

Sexism and the Star System in Architecture - Essay Example This kind of discrimination, unfortunately, is quite common in the profession and continues up till this day and age; it is still a major dilemma. Here, it will be attempted to describe various elements of sexism as well as those who have overcome such barriers inherent in the field of architecture, which include—but are not limited to—sexism and the star system in architecture; womens’ roles in architecture and the ideal architect profile; how kingmakers in architecture are usually men; and what it would look like if a woman were to be a kingmaker in architecture. II. Sexism and the Star System in Architecture The star system has, for a long time, dominated the way that architecture is run. The star system in architecture dominates who are the most sought-after design gurus in the field. Unfortunately, many times this system has favored men more than women in a statistical sense. Denise Scott Brown’s article Room at the Top?: Sexism and the Star System in Architecture is found in Dana Arnold’s book: â€Å"[S]exism and the star system in architecture [exists because] ‘[s]tar [q]uality’ [is] a ‘mysterious amalgam of self-love, vivacity, star, and sexual promise†¦... III. Womens’ Roles in Architecture and The Ideal Architect Profile The reason one needs to get a good architect is paramount.   A good architect on the project lays the foundation for everything else. Ideally, one wants to choose an architect for the project who has character.   In the same way this architect’s character is, so shall your structure be. Women have been at the forefront of architecture for years, but have been relegated to the shadows. â€Å"For centuries, women have designed and built works of architecture around the globe. But when architecture officially became a profession requiring professional education and licensure, the doors were slammed shut to women†¦A less-than-welcoming educational environment and a hostile [and discriminatory] work environment awaited them.†2   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Women who are able to be professional in their field underscore the need for professionalism in the field of architecture. à ¢â‚¬Å"The absence of women from the profession of architecture remains, despite the various theories, very difficult to explain and slow to change. It demarcates a failure the profession has become adept at turning a blind eye to, despite the fact that it places architecture far behind the other professions with which architects frequently seek to align themselves.†3 One wants an architect who will be able to see the project through from inception to completion.   Therefore, this person is going to have to envision the project as well as bring it to fruition. Maya Lin designed the Vietnam War Veterans’ Memorial when she was a 21-year-old student. The memorial now serves as a reminder of those who fought in Vietnam and lost their lives as a result.