Zaha Hadid

The Praemium Imperial is a global arts prize awarded annually by the Japan Art Association. It has become the highest international distinction for achievements in the arts. Each year, six nomination committees, each chaired by an International Adviser, propose candidates in five fields: Painting, Sculpture, Architecture, Music and Theater/Film.

This year, Zaha Hadid was awarded the high honor of Praemium Imperial for Architecture. Zaha Hadid was born in Iraq and was set on having a career in architecture at the ripe age of 11. Zaha studied architecture in London, and established her own practice in London at the age of 30. Today her firm, Zaha Hadid Architects, now employs over 250 people and is located in London. Some describe her works as fluid, dynamic exteriors, interweaving geometric curves, with straight lines and sharp angles.

In recent years her visions have brought her increased recognition. Here are just a few of her notable projects:

* J. S. Bach Pavilion, Manchester International Festival (2009), Manchester, UK
* Eli and Edythe Broad Museum, Michigan State University, (2008-)
* CMA CGM Tower, Marseille, France, (2007-2009)
* Chanel Mobile Art Pavilion (Worldwide) Tokyo, Hong Kong, New York, London, Paris, Moscow, (2006-2008)
* Tondonia Winery Pavilion (2001-2006)[6], Haro, Spain
* Bridge Pavilion (2008), Zaragoza, Spain
* Cyprus: Eleftheria square, redesign, (2007)
* Nordkettenbahn (aerial tramway) (2007), Innsbruck, Austria
* sfasf at the Victoria Hospital (2006), Kirkcaldy, Scotland
* High speed train station of Afragola (2006), Afragola, Italy
* BMW Central Building (2005), Leipzig, Germany
* Ordrupgaard annexe (2005), Copenhagen, Denmark
* Phaeno Science Center (2005), Wolfsburg, Germany
* Bergisel Ski Jump (2002), Innsbruck, Austria
* Hoenheim-North Terminus & Car Park (2001), Hoenheim, France
* Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art (1998), Cincinnati, Ohio
* Vitra Fire Station (1994), Weil am Rhein, Germany

Click on any image to view a larger version:

Bergisel Ski Jump, Innsbruck, Austria - 2004

Bridge Pavilion in Zaragoza, Spain

Maggie's Centre, Kirkcaldy

Contemporary Arts Center Hadid's first American work in Cincinnati, Ohio

BMW Central Building, Leipzig, Germany

Future Projects – Renderings:

New Cairo Expo City

Library and Learning Center in Vienna

Library and Learning Center in Vienna