Le Corbusier — The Art of Architecture is the first major survey in London of the internationally renowned architect in more than 20 years. This timely reassessment presents a wealth of original models, interior settings, drawings, furniture, photographs, films, tapestries, paintings, sculpture and books by designed and written by the architect himself.
The exhibition charts how Le Corbusier’s work changed dramatically over the years from the regional vernacular of his early houses in Switzerland, to his iconic Purist villas and interiors of the 1920s, to the dynamic synthesis achieved between his art and architecture as exemplified by his chapel at Ronchamp (1950-55), and his civic buildings in Chandigarh, India (1952-64). Important works by his collaborators, such as Fernand Léger, Amédée Ozenfant Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé are also featured.
Barbican celebrates Le Corbusier with a host of special events, including concerts, films and talks by acclaimed speakers. The last truly utopian urban planning project in London and greatly inspired by his aesthetic, Barbican presents the perfect backdrop to explore the man and his legacy.
The Barbican, 'Le Corbusier - The Art of Architecture'
There seem to be a number of architectural exhibitions and events in progress at the moment; perhaps the reaction to economic downturn is a re-imagining of the domestic spaces that shape our day-to-day lives, with a hope for some kind of redemptive future in the angle between two walls. Perhaps not. It's just a theory.
I've always had a big interest in architecture as a distinguished craft: its practice offers one of the few opportunities for an artist to have a tangible and lasting result on the way someone lives their life, and can even hold an influence on the way people feel and think from one moment to the next. It's all very powerful stuff, and none summed this up so well as the twentieth-century Bauhaus architect Le Corbusier.
The Barbican is London is currently hosting an exhibition of his work, running until 24 May 2009. They promise that there shall be plenty to see, and offer potential visitors a taste of what's on offer at the official website. Click here for more.
