Why Architects Love to Wear Black: PTS's 'Art is a Big Deal' Reveals the Secret

The latest episode of PTS's program 'Art is a Big Deal' will broadcast 'Why Architects Love to Wear Black? From Wardrobe to the City's Subtractive Daily Life,' exploring the cultural phenomenon of architects' long-standing preference for black clothing. According to a press release issued by PTS today, the production team interviewed architect Chien Hsueh-yi, Taiwan Design Research Institute director Chang Chi-yi, and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University architecture associate professor Tseng Ling-li, delving into their workplaces, architectural works, and private lives to glimpse the professional attitude and philosophy behind 'black clothing.' PTS recently held a premiere, where the production team asked, 'If there were no black or dark gray clothes in the store, what would you buy?' Chien Hsueh-yi responded directly, 'Then don't buy, go home and wear old clothes,' even bluntly saying, 'Otherwise, I'd be naked.' Chang Chi-yi echoed the 'nakedness' sentiment, believing it symbolizes a return to the essence of sincerity. The press release noted that different facets of black clothing culture can also be seen in the three protagonists. Chien Hsueh-yi, who recently received the National Award for Arts, has a wardrobe that is almost '100% black,' differing only in sleeve length and newness. Chien believes black is a 'reclusive existence,' allowing one to focus on the essence of space and design thinking. Chang Chi-yi describes black clothing as an 'invisible cloak' recognized by the group, extending black, white, and gray to the overall environmental aesthetics, from clothing to office furniture, stationery, and even detailed configurations, presenting a high degree of order and consistent design vocabulary. Tseng Ling-li believes black is low-key and neutral, reducing gender differences in male-dominated construction sites and professional fields, and also providing a sense of security, like a 'comfort blanket.' She often switches between construction sites, proposal presentations, and classrooms, making black clothing the most foolproof choice, not only dirt-resistant but also forming a clear scale contrast next to models. 'Why Architects Love to Wear Black? From Wardrobe to the City's Subtractive Daily Life' will air on PTS Channel on the 18th; it is already available on the 'Art is a Big Deal' YouTube channel and 'PTS+' video platform. (Editor: Chen Ren-hua) 1150417