Absence Quote by Rem Koolhaas
“We know that Las Vegas is junk, but at the same time I think that exactly the same process and ultimately also, perhaps the same logic, attaches itself to or underlies our masterpieces. We live in an amazing era when in spite of an absence of masters there is an explosion of masterpieces.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: S,M: The Architecture of Las Vegas, 1995
Koolhaas suggests that the chaotic, commercial nature of Las Vegas mirrors the creative process behind contemporary masterpieces, despite a lack of traditional masters.
In simple terms: Chaos in Vegas reflects creative chaos in art.
Key Takeaway
Recognize value in unconventional sources.
Themes
creativity
culture
modernism
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
critical
observational
When to use this quote
- architectural criticism
- art analysis
- cultural commentary
Key Concepts
urbanism
postmodernism
aesthetic theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does commercial chaos influence artistic innovation?
- Can lack of masters be a catalyst for new forms?
A Different Perspective
The comparison may oversimplify distinct artistic intentions.
![“That has been another interesting discovery: that basically a city [Lagos] could recover from a really deep, deep, deep pit.” quote by Rem Koolhaas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/61e/rem-koolhaas-5371_cities_that-has-been-another-interesting-discov_15915.jpg)
![“The beauty of my profession [architecture] lies in its randomness and surprise. And don't think I can choose my projects. I have to build what's offered to me.” quote by Rem Koolhaas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/712/rem-koolhaas-5371_architecture_the-beauty-of-my-profession-architecture_97486.jpg)
![“Nigeria [in 1990] was all rumour, an unbelievable amount of rumour - largely about crime and almost mythical manifestations of evil.” quote by Rem Koolhaas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/72f/rem-koolhaas-5371_amount_nigeria-in-1990-was-all-rumour-an-unbeli_125862.jpg)
