The world of architecture often reveals fascinating connections and influences, and the relationship between Sir John Soane and John Vanbrugh is a prime example. This article delves into the current exhibition at Sir John Soane's Museum, which celebrates the 300th anniversary of Vanbrugh's death and explores his unique contribution to British architecture.
The Shakespeare of Architecture
Soane, an architect himself, admired Vanbrugh immensely, referring to him as the 'Shakespeare of architecture.' This title hints at the dramatic and expressive nature of Vanbrugh's work, a style that stood out against the neo-Palladian Classicism prevalent at the time. The exhibition, co-curated by Charles Saumarez Smith and architect Roz Barr, delves into this theatrical aspect, subtitled 'The Drama of Architecture.'
From Playwright to Architect
What makes Vanbrugh's story particularly intriguing is his transition from a celebrated playwright to an architect. His risqué plays, like 'The Provoked Wife,' paved the way for his architectural career. It was through a theatrical business venture that he ended up designing the Queen's Theatre Haymarket, his first architectural project, despite having no formal training in the field. This unconventional path sets the tone for his entire architectural career.
The Dilettante Architect
Vanbrugh's reputation as a gentleman amateur or dilettante is an interesting aspect. His contemporary and collaborator, Nicholas Hawksmoor, often receives more admiration from architects due to his perceived cerebral and serious approach. Hawksmoor, unlike Vanbrugh, designed churches and public buildings, adding a layer of complexity to their collaborative work.
Stage Flats or Architectural Masterpieces?
The exhibition's first room focuses on Vanbrugh's country houses, and it's hard not to notice the stage-like quality of many of the house elevations. The intricate plans seem more concerned with the shapes and patterns they create rather than the spaces they define. However, a sketch by Vanbrugh himself, a bird's-eye perspective of Castle Howard, reveals his inventive spirit and takes us beyond the surface.
Uncovering Vanbrugh's Sketches
One of the exhibition's highlights is the discovery of Vanbrugh's sketchbook, acquired by the V&A in the 1990s. These sketches, on display for the first time, showcase his restless inventiveness. They include fantasy doodles and designs for his own homes, offering a glimpse into his experimental nature and his enjoyment of architecture as a playful art form.
A Personal Connection
The exhibition also features a short film by Jim Venturi, the son of renowned architects Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown. The film captures their visit to Blenheim Palace and their reaction to Vanbrugh's work. Their appreciation for Vanbrugh's wit and creativity provides an insight into their own architectural philosophy and the influence Vanbrugh had on their work, particularly evident in Venturi's Mother's House.
A Celebration of Vanbrugh's Legacy
This small but impactful exhibition offers a multifaceted view of Vanbrugh's work, providing a deeper understanding of his unique contribution to architecture. It serves as a wonderful introduction to Vanbrugh's dramatic style and sets the stage for further explorations during this anniversary year, including the exhibition 'Staging the Baroque' at Castle Howard.
Personally, I think Vanbrugh's story is a reminder that architecture is not just about structures, but also about the creative minds and personalities behind them. His journey from playwright to architect, his inventive spirit, and his impact on future generations make him a fascinating figure in the history of architecture.
