“Public Art is Too Often a Compensation for Boring Buildings,” Opines British Designer

Thomas Heatherwick, founder of Heatherwick Studio, argues that public art should not be a substitute for good building design.

In a recent episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, British designer Thomas Heatherwick shared his perspective on the role of public art in urban spaces. Heatherwick, renowned for his innovative designs, contended that public art is often used as a compensation for lackluster buildings. While acknowledging the importance of art in public spaces, he emphasized the need for architects and designers to prioritize creativity and artistic flair in the initial building design, rather than relying on separate art installations to enhance the overall aesthetic. This article explores Heatherwick’s views and the potential for meaningful collaborations between artists and architects.

Public Art as an Adornment

Heatherwick expressed his concern that public art is frequently seen as a way to make unremarkable buildings more visually appealing. He argued that artists are often relegated to the role of producing adornments, rather than being involved in the design process from the beginning. According to Heatherwick, this approach diminishes the potential for truly remarkable buildings and spaces, as the art becomes a separate intervention rather than an integral part of the design.

The Role of Artists and Designers

Pearl Lam, the host of The Pearl Lam Podcast, countered Heatherwick’s argument by highlighting the distinct roles of artists and designers. Lam believes that artists should not be expected to create practical and functional structures, but rather to inspire social change and provoke thought through their artwork. She contends that the presence of art in the public realm does not discourage architects from creating refined and beautiful buildings. Lam suggests that artists and designers can collaborate in a way that allows for both functional design and artistic expression.

Imaginative Collaborations

Heatherwick proposed the idea of meaningful collaborations between artists and designers, where creativity and imagination are embraced in the design process. He argued that buildings should not simply serve as neutral backdrops for art, but rather incorporate artwork in a way that enhances the overall experience and emotional connection to the space. Heatherwick questioned why even seemingly mundane structures, such as bus stops, cannot be designed to evoke feelings and emotions similar to art.

Connecting with Emotions

During the podcast episode, Heatherwick discussed his book ‘Humanise’ and his mission to encourage architects and developers to create buildings that connect with people’s emotions. He emphasized the importance of designing spaces that go beyond mere functionality and engage individuals on a deeper level. Heatherwick believes that there is room for imaginative thinking in architecture, where buildings can stand independently as remarkable and beautiful, while also incorporating artwork that complements the overall design.

Conclusion:

Thomas Heatherwick’s perspective on public art as a compensation for boring buildings sparks an important conversation about the role of art in the public realm. While he acknowledges the value of art, Heatherwick emphasizes the need for architects and designers to prioritize creativity and artistic flair in building design. By fostering meaningful collaborations between artists and designers, it is possible to create spaces that are both functional and emotionally engaging. The integration of art into the design process has the potential to transform urban spaces into vibrant and inspiring environments for all.