The Legacy of John Vanbrugh: A Theatrical Architect
In the world of architecture, certain figures leave an indelible mark, transcending time and style. One such figure is John Vanbrugh, a man whose influence still resonates through the centuries. What makes Vanbrugh particularly intriguing is his unique background and the theatrical flair he brought to his designs, which is beautifully showcased in the exhibition 'Vanbrugh: The Drama of Architecture' at Sir John Soane's Museum.
A Shared Vision
Sir John Soane, a renowned architect in his own right, found a kindred spirit in Vanbrugh. Both men, with their expressive design sensibilities, stood in stark contrast to the neo-Palladian Classicism that dominated British architecture in the 18th century. Soane's admiration for Vanbrugh is evident in his lectures at the Royal Academy, where he referred to Vanbrugh as the 'Shakespeare of architecture'. This exhibition, curated by Charles Saumarez Smith and Roz Barr, brilliantly highlights the connection between these two architectural visionaries.
The Theatrical Touch
Vanbrugh's work exudes a dramatic flair, and this is no coincidence. Before he became an architect, Vanbrugh was a celebrated dramatist, penning plays like 'The Provoked Wife'. His transition to architecture was sparked by a theatrical venture at the Queen's Theatre Haymarket, where he ended up designing the venue despite having no formal training. This theatrical background is evident in his architectural creations, which often resemble stage sets, with a focus on shape, form, and shadow. The exhibition's watercolors of Blenheim Palace, drawn by Soane's office, beautifully illustrate this playfulness with light and shadow, emphasizing the theatricality of Vanbrugh's designs.
The Amateur's Genius
What's fascinating about Vanbrugh is his status as a gentleman amateur, almost a dilettante. This has led to an interesting dynamic where his collaborator, Nicholas Hawksmoor, is often seen as the more serious and cerebral architect. Hawksmoor, who worked with Vanbrugh on projects like Castle Howard and Blenheim, designed churches and public buildings, while Vanbrugh's portfolio primarily consists of luxurious private country houses for aristocratic clients. This exhibition shines a light on Vanbrugh's work, showcasing his unique approach to design, which often prioritized the exterior over the interior, almost like a grand theatrical production.
Unveiling the Creative Process
One of the most captivating aspects of the exhibition is the revelation of Vanbrugh's creative process. The sketches in the front gallery, including a bird's-eye perspective of Castle Howard, offer a glimpse into his inventive spirit. These sketches, along with those in the second gallery, were unearthed from a sketchbook acquired by the V&A in the 1990s. They showcase Vanbrugh's relentless creativity, from grand designs to personal fantasies. It's fascinating to see how he used his land in Greenwich as a testing ground for his architectural ideas, much like an artist experimenting with different styles.
A Modern Perspective
The exhibition also provides a modern lens through which to view Vanbrugh's work. A short film by Jim Venturi and Anita Naughton features Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown, renowned architects, visiting Blenheim Palace. Their reactions and commentary offer a fascinating insight into how Vanbrugh's work influenced modern architecture. The broken upper pediment of Blenheim directly inspired Venturi's Mother's House, demonstrating the enduring legacy of Vanbrugh's theatrical approach.
A Year of Celebration
This exhibition is just the beginning of a year-long celebration of Vanbrugh's work, with other events planned, including the 'Staging the Baroque' exhibition at Castle Howard. It's a wonderful opportunity to delve into the mind of a brilliant architect whose work continues to inspire and fascinate. Personally, I find it captivating how Vanbrugh's theatrical background seamlessly blended with his architectural genius, creating a unique style that defied the norms of his time. It's a testament to the power of creativity and the endless possibilities that arise when we dare to think outside the box.
