An interactive network of images as a tool in art history – a case study
From the beginning of the modern era through to classicism, column orders have been accorded fundamental significance in the study of architecture. In the 15th century, it was suggested that there would be no order in architecture without this, and even Goethe held it for self-evident that the application of column orders was the most significant formal problem for architecture.
The HyperColumn: Column Orders project explores issues related to the theoretical understanding and practical application of column orders. A comprehensive digital network of images connects examples on the wide-ranging use of the orders.
Besides a systematic classification using categories such as epochs and construction types, selected issues are brought vividly to life through a range of structured tours. These include the process of formal canonisation of orders based on the Dorica of the early Renaissance, the implementation of the principles of Renaissance architecture over the development of palace construction in Florence or the reception of Vitruvius‘ De Architectura based on illustrations as they appeared in later editions. Goethe’s comments on architecture can be appreciated if we follow a tour through Vicenza and observe the buildings of Palladio.
The special feature of this computer-aided presentation lies in the selection of graphics, the precision of the annotations and the contextual links between image details. Moreover, visual argumentations can be extended across image tableaux. The methodology behind HyperImage allows for a novel form of conveying this fundamental issue of art history, a form that argues along the lines of the image and which, through its non-linear, interactive approach, invites curious users to depart on a journey of discovery and to compile their own light tables.
HyperColumn was carried out at the Institute for Art History at
the University of Zurich as part of a project workshop in the spring
and winter semesters 2008.
Academic Director:Prof. Dr. Hubertus
Günther
Project Director: Susanne Schumacher M.A.
and Dr. Hanns Hubach
Contents: Urs Baumberger, Elisabeth Geiger,
Sabine Hügli,
Madleine Skarda, Lukas Zingg sowie Vital Lutz, Pic Wieland
Supported by:
E-Learning coordination of the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of
Zurich
HyperImage, Leuphana University, Lüneburg and Humboldt University, Berlin
Mediendatenbank of the Zurich University of the Arts
Contact: Susanne Schumacher M.A.
Zurich University of the Arts
Ausstellungsstr. 60, Postfach, CH - 8031 Zürich
Phone +41 43 446 32 76
susanne.schumacher@zhdk.ch
