John Vanbrugh: A Master of Architecture and the Stage
Sir John Soane's Museum is currently hosting an exhibition that marks 300 years since the death of John Vanbrugh, an architect who left an indelible mark on the world of design. The exhibition, co-curated by Charles Saumarez Smith and architect Roz Barr, celebrates Vanbrugh's unique style and his influence on British architecture. What makes this exhibition particularly fascinating is the exploration of Vanbrugh's theatrical bent, which is reflected in the subtitle, 'The Drama of Architecture'.
Vanbrugh's journey to architecture was an unusual one. Before becoming an architect, he was a celebrated dramatist, writing risqué plays such as 'The Provoked Wife' (1697). His pivot to architecture came through the theatre, and he ended up designing the Queen's Theatre Haymarket, despite having no architectural training. This theatrical background is evident in his work, which is characterized by a sense of drama and playfulness.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the three horizontal watercolours depicting the façade of Vanbrugh's Blenheim Palace seen in three different lights. These drawings, created by Soane's office for use as illustrations in lectures, elucidate the play of shape, form, and shadow in the architecture, underlining the theatricality of Vanbrugh's work. This theatrical bent is also reflected in the exhibition's subtitle, 'The Drama of Architecture'.
However, what many people don't realize is that Vanbrugh's work is often overshadowed by his contemporary and collaborator, Nicholas Hawksmoor. Hawksmoor, who was clerk of works at Castle Howard and Blenheim, is more admired among architects for being more cerebral and serious in comparison. But in my opinion, Vanbrugh's work is equally fascinating and innovative, and it's time we give him the recognition he deserves.
The exhibition also showcases Vanbrugh's sketches, which demonstrate his restless inventiveness in sketching out ideas for houses big and small. Many of these sketches are just fantasy doodles, but they include those he built for himself and his family on a piece of land he bought in Greenwich. This spirit of excitement and experimentation is also reflected in a new short film of Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown, which is shown in the Museum's Foyle Space downstairs.
In conclusion, Vanbrugh: The Drama of Architecture is a small but insightful exhibition that gives us a glimpse into the life and work of a master architect. It's a must-see for anyone interested in architecture, design, and the history of the stage. Personally, I think this exhibition is a testament to Vanbrugh's enduring legacy and his influence on British architecture. It's a reminder that architecture can be a form of art, and that the stage can be a source of inspiration for designers.
