Le Corbusier — The Art of Architecture

Le Corbusier (1887-1965), widely acclaimed as the most influential architect of the 20th century, was also a celebrated thinker, writer and artist. His architecture and radical ideas for reinventing modern living, from private villas to large-scale social housing to utopian urban plans, still resonate today. 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. Le Corbusier at the Barbican 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. Thursday Lates The Gallery is open every Thursday until 10pm. Meet friends at the Gallery cocktail bar and join architects, designers and others for their personal take on the exhibition. http://www.barbican.org.uk/lecorbusier