Max Cetto Discusses Mexican Architecture

Architect Max Cetto drew parallels between Aztec and modern Mexican building styles last night, in an attempt to demonstrate the continuities in his country's architectural history. His speech was sponsored by the Graduate School of Design.

A Mexican born in Germany of Italian parents, Cetto defended the principle of nationality in his field. Architecture is a highly socialized art, Cetto said, and must reflect the peculiarities of the society in which it is created.

Concern with exterior space and a highly decorative spirit dominate Mexican architecture, he claimed. From Aztec pyramids to Olympic stadiums, the best of Mexican buildings have blended with the volcanic scenery of the highlands.

Cetto criticized Mexico's University City as a "great wasted architectural opportunity." Open spaces were "inhuman" in extent, he said, and decoration was often carried to excessive lengths. He also found fault with the tendency of modern architects to overemphasize sculpture at the expense of structure. Many buildings constructed along these lines, he said, are poor imitations of Le Corbusier's works.