Sketches Of Frank Gehry

I saw this documentary film about a year ago. It was shown to me by my tutor at the time, Connie Hwang of the University Of Florida, Graphic Design program. It truly left its mark and has been an inspiration to me ever since. Directed and narrated by Sydney Pollock, it takes you on a voyage into Gehry's life, his stunning architecture and the way he creates such breathtaking buildings.

What I find most intriguing about Gehry's work is the human connection that he has with a building. He personalises it so intensely, with an innate feel of what will work and what will not. The faith that he holds in his own judgement has led him to create such buildings as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain and the Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles, USA to name but a few.

The films real focus is upon the transition from his sketches: mere scribbles on the paper, to fantastic works of art, which some say can be threatening to artists wanting to exhibit their work in his buildings. I really admire Gehry's involvement in all projects and how he is not afraid to fail. Yet he often does. Critiques are never too easy on Gehry's buildings and they often cause a stir in the public eye. But this film has reinforced my already admirable view of a talented and hard working man. His wisdom and patients come through in the documentary and make him my number one modern architect.