Frank Gehry: Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain

With architectural design, the possibilities are virtually endless. Much time, inspiration, and creative thought are involved in making the clean lines we are so familiar with today. The style that accurately reflects this notion and is currently dominating the architectural scene is post-modernist. Said movement is reliant upon subtle glimpses into newer, more efficient methods of construction and delves from the conventional elements of art-deco and European avant-garde. 

Circa 1970, post-modernism arrived and changed the world's opinion on architecture. The primary objective of this appeal was to surprise and please viewers while simultaneously displaying shapes and details in unique ways. A majority of the movement revolved around a glance into future concepts: a collision of styles, vast ornamentation, a vulgar appearance and color juxtaposition between black and white. Currently its roots are traceable to renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his rejection of rules through early modernism. 

Out of all his competition during the early years of post-modernism, arguably Frank Gehry surpassed them all. At first glance one might never call his work "art." However art is a medium of expression and presented in a variety of forms. No style is exclusive to a specific medium, composition, or subject. In regards to the architect, his buildings live up to the demands of the post-modernist movement: each work possesses an outlandish, but unique and visually appealing aesthetic. Among Ghery's futuristic designs the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain is the most highly regarded. Said structure shifted perspectives of conventional museum layout and opened in 1997 as part of an economic revival. Despite the risky move, its unorthodox design was a success and met with critical acclaim from international critics, tourists, and architects alike.

In essence, the building itself is timeless. There is such a striking juxtaposition amongst the smooth curves, ripples, and general structure. Every artist knows that lines and color cannot be fixated haphazardly. Creative genius requires time, patience, and meticulous planning. Moreover, the overall composition matters. In Gehry's design, each curve is stylized to capture the sunlight while at the same time seamlessly blend into the urban environment. When viewed from a distance it evokes a sense on contentment and utter awe. Likewise, one is compelled to feel disbelief that such a limitless and historical building was ever constructed. With the Guggenheim Museum all limits are defied. The curve linear appearance draws eyes along the infamous shape. Although many visit for the artwork inside, the Guggenheim is the real masterpiece on public display.