Description.

Both an in-depth and textured portrait of enigmatic Danish architect Jørn Utzon, as well as a narrative of perhaps the 20th Centuries greatest architectural project, SAW 2 - Utzon draws the listener into the amazing visionary world of the architect of the Sydney Opera House.

Discussing the sources of the young architect's inspiration, his methods and philosophy, we chart the development of Utzon's ideas and their realisation in the platform, concrete shells and ceramic skin of Sydney Opera House. You will discover the influence of towering 20thC figures like LeCorbusier, Alvar Aalto, Eero Saarinen, Mies van der Rohe and even Picasso on Utzon's ideas, his interest in Gaudi, as well as the ways in which his work was at once utterly contemporary yet drew many of its ideas from the work of the ancients.

Using discarded drawings and models, Utzon's design of the acoustic interiors, glass walls and furniture, much of it ready for construction before he left in '66, will be discussed and you can judge for yourself how much Sydney lost when he was forced to leave the building half-finished.

SAW 2 finishes with the current Opera House refurbishment, a decade-long collaboration between Utzon, his architect son Jan and Sydney architect Richard Johnson.

What Else.

• Print and bring along your (attached) ticket or bring photo ID. 

• Please arrive at the Museum of Sydney (foyer) 10 minutes prior to tour departure. There is a good coffee shop next to the Museum if you're early.

• Tickets are transferrable and cancellable up to 72 hours before the event.

• Whatever happens in regards to weather - we will walk! Bring a sun hat, umbrella, camera, sketch book and so on.

Enquiries.

Email info@sydneyarchitecture.org or phone 0403 888 390.