Renowned French conceptualist Yves Klein (1928–1962) produced a prescient body of work concerning the concept of air architecture – an immaterial architecture. For the first time, this aspect of Klein’s work was the focus of an exhibition organized by the MAK Center. Yves Klein: Air Architecture offered an opportunity to consider the artist’s architectural projects and theories, featuring drawings, texts, photography, sculpture and film from the Yves Klein Archive in Paris. The exhibition was guest curated by architect François Perrin, who also designed a site-specific installation for the Schindler House.

related events

François Perrin: Microclimates, June 3, 2004. Kicking off the season’s LA Forum Lecture series On The Map and held in the Schindler House’s outdoor courtyard, this lecture presented Perrin’s latest built projects and comments on the environmental aspect of Yves Klein’s architectural works, including climate control, global warming, and sustainable energy.

The Movies of Yves Klein at the American Cinematheque, July 1, 2004.

Site(ing) Yves Klein, July 14, 2004. Panel discussion with Juli Carson, Peter Lunenfeld, Rachel Kushner, François Perrin. Moderated by Kimberli Meyer.

Yves Klein: Architecture and the Future, August 10, 2004. Panel discussion with Michael Speaks, Norman Klein, Sylvia Lavin, François Perrin. Moderated by Lauri Firstenberg.

Japanese Tea Ceremony and Judo Demonstration, August 15, 2004. Held in the Schindler courtyard and garden, these demonstrations illuminated an important aspect of Klein’s practice. An accomplished Judo master, Klein visited Japan and cited his Judo skills in reference to his work. The Japanese Tea Ceremony was demonstrated by Soyu Yamashita and the Judo demonstration was taught by Korean Grand Master Seok Pil Jang.