Oscar Niemeyer Quotations

I think of myself as no more than 60. What I could do at 60, I can still do now.

I search for surprise in my architecture. A work of art should cause the emotion of newness.

In architecture it isn't enough to just have the right building that works well. It can also be beautiful. It can also be different. It can create surprise. And surprise is the main thing in a work of art. [] I like and respect Brasí­lia very much. It is a simple city, a rational one. I always defend the urban design of Brasí­lia

A church is something very beautiful. It is nice when people feel happy in it. But I am not a religious man. Look at us, and then at the infinity of space. We are rather small insignificant creatures, wouldn’t you say?

Architecture does not change anything. It's always on the side of the wealthy. The important thing is to believe that it can make life better.

For me beauty is valued more than anything - the beauty that is manifest in a curved line or in an act of creativity.

I am a Brazilian before I am an architect. I cannot separate the two.

I like talking to priests, to Catholics. Everyone has their beliefs.

There is no reason to design buildings that are more basic and rectilinear, because with concrete you can cover almost any space.

When students leave college, they are like children who know nothing about the problems of life, and don't have a political stance.