Oscar Niemeyer

One of the most noted architects from South America, Niemeyer may be best known for his starring role in a flawed scheme. His break came in his first engagement with Corbusier, an important influence, though Niemeyer’s love of curvature underpinned an independent style; the second engagement proved less rewarding. Burle Marx was a regular collaborator; he also worked closely with his great friend Prouvé. Malraux helped with permission to work in France, where he encountered Sartre (sullen but fascinating) and Genet. De Beauvoir disliked Brasilia. Gropius visited him at home, complaining that its irregularity of form could never be mass-produced.