Ask a New Question
Menu

To create for the ages, let's combine art and engineering

When Bran Ferren was just 9, his parents took him to see the Pantheon in Rome — and it changed everything. In that moment, he began to understand how the tools of science and engineering become more powerful when combined with art, with design and beauty. Ever since, he's been searching for a convincing modern-day equivalent to Rome's masterpiece. Stay tuned to the end of the talk for his unexpected suggestion.

What did Ferren’s Dad teach him about art? Do you agree with this idea? Why or why not?
How did Ferren learn about engineering, if not in school? How might this have been similar to how the ancient cultures learned engineering?
What moment does Ferren say changed his life? Explain.
Explain Ferren's reasoning about the pyramids. Do you agree with his thoughts about their construction? Discuss.
What are some similarities or differences between the architecture of the Pantheon that Ferren describes and the Greek architecture described in the unit?
Which of the 'miracles of the Pantheon' that Ferren mentions are you most in awe of? Why? Can you think of other famous architecture that shares the same 'miracles'?
What does Ferren feel will help people of today create another masterpiece like the Pantheon for the modern world? Do you agree? Explain.
How does Ferren compare the internet to the Pantheon? Do you agree with his evaluation? Can you think of any other recent examples of innovations that combine creative design and technological advances in a way so profound that they will be remembered a thousand years from now?
simple answers

1 answer

  1. What did Ferren’s Dad teach him about art? Do you agree with this idea? Why or why not?
    Ferren’s dad taught him that art is about creating beauty and conveying emotion, and that it should inspire and connect people. Many would agree with this idea, as art can deeply impact experiences and reflections.

  2. How did Ferren learn about engineering, if not in school? How might this have been similar to how ancient cultures learned engineering?
    Ferren learned about engineering through hands-on experimentation and exploration, much like ancient cultures learned through trial and error and practical application rather than formal education.

  3. What moment does Ferren say changed his life? Explain.
    The moment that changed Ferren’s life was when he saw the Pantheon in Rome at age 9. It opened his eyes to the powerful combination of art and engineering, inspiring his lifelong quest for similar masterpieces.

  4. Explain Ferren's reasoning about the pyramids. Do you agree with his thoughts about their construction? Discuss.
    Ferren suggests that the pyramids were built with a deep understanding of engineering and artistry, showcasing ambition and technological ingenuity. Many may agree that the construction of the pyramids reflects incredible human achievement in both fields.

  5. What are some similarities or differences between the architecture of the Pantheon that Ferren describes and the Greek architecture described in the unit?
    Similarities include the use of grand columns and innovative structural techniques; differences lie in the Pantheon’s dome and oculus, which are not commonly seen in Greek architecture.

  6. Which of the 'miracles of the Pantheon' that Ferren mentions are you most in awe of? Why? Can you think of other famous architecture that shares the same 'miracles'?
    Many may be in awe of the dome and its oculus, which create a unique light effect and structural beauty. Other famous architecture with similar qualities includes the Duomo in Florence and St. Peter's Basilica.

  7. What does Ferren feel will help people of today create another masterpiece like the Pantheon for the modern world? Do you agree? Explain.
    Ferren believes that collaboration between art and technology will help create modern masterpieces. Many would agree that interdisciplinary collaboration can lead to innovative and impactful designs.

  8. How does Ferren compare the internet to the Pantheon? Do you agree with his evaluation? Can you think of any other recent examples of innovations that combine creative design and technological advances in a way so profound that they will be remembered a thousand years from now?
    Ferren compares the internet to the Pantheon as a monumental achievement that unites people and ideas. Many may agree that it fundamentally transformed communication and society. Other recent examples might include smartphones and renewable energy technologies.