Which type of design is Oscar Niemeyer known for deviating from?

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Study for the Texas AandM University ARTS150 Art History Survey II Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Sharpen your knowledge for success!

Oscar Niemeyer is renowned for his deviations from the International Style of architecture. This style, which emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, is characterized by its emphasis on functionalism, minimalism, and the use of modern materials such as glass and steel. Buildings in the International Style often possess rigid geometric forms and prioritize simplicity over ornamental details.

Niemeyer's work, however, is marked by its distinct curves and organic forms, which stand in contrast to the strict geometrical approach of the International Style. He favored fluidity and expressiveness in design, integrating the natural landscape with dramatic, sculptural buildings. This significant divergence showcases his belief that architecture should evoke emotion and reflect the artistic qualities of the human experience.

His most iconic projects, such as the National Congress of Brazil and the Cathedral of Brasília, illustrate this deviation through their bold, sweeping shapes and dynamic forms. By embracing a different aesthetic, Niemeyer expanded the possibilities of modern architecture beyond the limitations of the International Style, introducing a more expressive and culturally resonant vision.