Directed by Tim Clark
From the Modernist ideas of Europe and North America, through the eccentricity of Postmodernism, and to the importance of climate and place, this 3-part series from Australia is an investigation into the eclectic world of architects and their creations.
Featuring buildings that are striking, controversial or simply beautiful, and concentrating on the views and motivations of award-winning architects, including Harry Seidler, Richard Leplastrier, Paul Katsieris, Peter Corrigan, Bernard Seeber, Phillip Cox, Sean Godsell and many others, IN THE MIND OF THE ARCHITECT explores connections between architecture and the human condition, and discusses the brutal politics of building structures.
Part 1, KEEPING THE FAITH explores the relationship between architect and client, including projects where the designer is the client. Looking at houses they design for themselves, for government and for big business, Part 1 also examines the fight between those who prefer innovation, and those who want 'nice', conservative buildings. Is it the architect's responsibility to give us what we want, or to lead us where we haven't been before?
Part 2, THE PUBLIC GOOD: With capital on the move from public to private spending, architects must straddle both worlds and balance the desires of business clients with the obligation to the public good. Cities are the battleground, driven by pressure for commercial development. So who makes the decision? Who cares about the public good with respect to large commercial developments? THE PUBLIC GOOD looks at these and other issues surrounding public development.
Part 3, CORRUGATED DREAMS: The potential of architecture is to enable things to happen - to enhance, not restrict. What gives an architect the confidence to build a great building? Is it a good site, tolerant neighbors, or a gifted contractor? Or is the most important factor a brave client with lots of money? From seemingly hopeless suburbs to a downtown hotel, CORRUGATED DREAMS visits the artistic possibilities of architecture, within the practical context of the 21st Century consumer's needs.
Ultimately IN THE MIND OF THE ARCHITECT explains the process we call architecture - its philosophy and its essential relationship with people.
Reviews
~ "A masterful job of explaining architectural concepts бн a very stylish production бн it wonders whether there is a definitive style of Australian architecture and looks at the tension between politics and design." - The Age
~ "A fascinating insight into the world of architecture. Beautifully presented, photographed and argued." - The Mercury
~ "Wonderfully interesting. The issues discussed are applicable not just to architecture, but to any profession that involves creative problem solving, the balance of form and function, and revisions brought on by social needs." - Ballast Quarterly Review
Awards
~ The Bates Smart Award for Architecture in the Media (2000)
~ Silver Medal, 2000 Australian Cinematography Society Awards
~ Best Documentary, 2000 Victorian Architecture Awards
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