Lin Huiyin "broke the ice" in the Department of Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania: The biography of her granddaughter Yu Kui reveals the road of female pioneers
In the long course of history, there have always been some names that have shone brightly for their extraordinary courage and outstanding achievements, and Lin Huiyin is one of them. This woman, who is an architect, writer, poet and other people, has not only left a strong mark in the history of modern Chinese architecture, but also inspired countless followers with her perseverance. Recently, Lin Huiyin's granddaughter Yu Kui's biography "Icebreaker Journey: Lin Huiyin and the Department of Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania" unveiled the legendary story of how Lin Huiyin "broke into" the Department of Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania and how she flourished under the shackles of sexism.
1. Gender barriers in the context of the times
In the early 20th century in United States, despite rapid social change, the shadow of sexism still loomed over many fields, especially in higher education and the workplace. The Department of Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania, a long-established and prestigious institution, is a coveted temple for architecture students around the world. For women, however, the door is unusually heavy and almost impassable. At that time, architecture was seen as the exclusive domain of men, and women often had to put in much more effort and sacrifice than men to get involved in it.
Lin Huiyin, a talented woman from the East, with infinite love and longing for architecture, resolutely embarked on the journey of further study in the United States. However, when she applied to Penn's architecture department with high hopes, she was met with a cold rejection of sexism. In the face of this unfair treatment, Lin Huiyin did not choose to give up, but began her "ice-breaking journey" with an almost stubborn attitude.
Second, the curve saves the country, and pursues the dream of architecture in the name of art
In the face of the direct rejection of Penn's Department of Architecture, Lin Huiyin showed extraordinary wisdom and courage. Rather than be knocked down by the difficulties in front of her, she skillfully chose another path – enrolling in the Department of Fine Arts and taking the core courses of the Department of Architecture. This decision is not only a clever circumvention of gender discrimination, but also Lin Huiyin's persistent pursuit of his dreams. In the course of studying in the Department of Fine Arts, Lin Huiyin quickly emerged in the field of architecture with his excellent learning ability and deep understanding of architecture. Not only did she excel in her grades, but she also actively participated in various architectural practice activities and established deep connections with the faculty and students of the Department of Architecture.
Over time, Lin Huiyin's talent and efforts have gradually been recognized by the teachers and students of the Department of Architecture. With her excellent grades and outstanding performance, she has won the respect and love of teachers and students in the Department of Architecture. Eventually, she not only became a teaching assistant in the Department of Architecture, but also gained the same academic status and respect as her male students. At this moment, Lin Huiyin broke the shackles of gender discrimination with his practical actions, and opened up a path to the field of architecture for himself and later female students.
3. Yale's further study, the perfect integration of art and architecture
After completing his studies at Penn, Lin Huiyin was not satisfied with his achievements. She knows that in order to achieve higher achievements in the field of architecture, she must keep learning and exploring. So, she chose to attend the Yale School of Drama to study stage design. This decision not only greatly expanded her artistic vision, but also provided valuable inspiration and ideas for her future architectural design work.
During his studies at Yale, Lin Huiyin combined the design concept of stage art with his knowledge of architecture, and created many unique works. Her works not only focus on practicality and functionality, but also emphasize artistry and aesthetics. This design concept, which perfectly integrates art and architecture, has made her unique in the field of architectural design, and has won wide acclaim and recognition.
Fourth, return to China to contribute, and create a brilliant building
In 1928, Lin Huiyin and her husband Liang Sicheng returned to China after completing their studies. They were hired by Northeastern University to create the university's Department of Architecture. This is one of the important contributions they have made to the cause of architecture in China. During their time at Northeastern University, they not only taught and educated people, but also actively participated in various architectural practice activities, laying a solid foundation for the modernization of Chinese architecture.
After the end of the Anti-Japanese War, Lin Huiyin and Liang Sicheng returned to Beijing and once again joined hands to establish the Department of Architecture of Tsinghua University. The department has not only cultivated a large number of outstanding architectural talents, but also become an important base for architectural research and education in China. Lin Huiyin's work in the Department of Architecture at Tsinghua University not only imparts professional knowledge, but also focuses on cultivating students' innovative thinking and practical ability. She uses her own personal experience and outstanding achievements to inspire students to constantly strive for excellence and innovation.
5. The biography of granddaughter Yu Kui: inheritance and tribute
Recently, Lin Huiyin's granddaughter Yu Kui published a biography "Icebreaker Journey: Lin Huiyin and the Department of Architecture at the University of Penn", which details Lin's life, especially her struggle in the Department of Architecture at the University of Penn. This biography is not only a tribute and remembrance of Lin Huiyin's personal achievements, but also a call and advocacy for the concept of gender equality.
In the biography, Yu Kui depicts Lin Huiyin's persistence and struggle under gender discrimination with affectionate brushstrokes. Through a large number of historical materials and interviews, she restores the details of Lin Huiyin's study at Penn and how she used extraordinary courage and wisdom to break through the difficult process of gender barriers. At the same time, Yu Kui also combined his own understanding and perception to deeply excavate and inherit Lin Huiyin's spiritual heritage. She hopes that this biography will inspire more people to pay attention to and think about gender equality, and promote the realization of true equality and justice in the fields of education and profession in society.
6. Conclusion: Lin Huiyin's spiritual light lives forever