The Art of the Architect

The Art of the Architect showcases the role of drawing and watercolour painting in architecture. Michael G. Imber's watercolours and sketches demonstrate their vital contribution to every stage of an architectural project, facilitating a deeper connection between an architect and their environment. Hand drawing is an active response to its subject, informing the finished design and creating buildings that balance between human life and the natural world. This book is an ode to a precious art form and a visual delight for anyone who loves architecture and the attendant arts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: Triglyph Books

The Art of the Architect pays homage to the significant role that drawing and watercolour painting play in the realm of architecture. While architectural drawing has its roots in the Renaissance era, the advent of computer design programs has led to some questioning its relevance in the modern world. However, the work of Michael G. Imber, showcased here for the first time, demonstrates the enduring value of these traditional art forms at every stage of an architectural project.

Michael G. Imber, Architects, follows in the footsteps of his colleague, showcasing a visual culture that permeates their practice. Despite the prevalence of photographs, simulations, and visual graphics in today's design process, hand drawing remains a crucial tool for architects seeking a deeper connection with their environment. Unlike a quick snapshot taken on a smartphone, a hand drawing is an active response to its subject, incorporating sensory understanding into the final design. This results in buildings that strike a harmonious balance between human habitation and the natural world.

Michael's sketches not only enhance his ability to visualise his surroundings but also serve as a powerful communication tool with his team, craftsmen, and clients. The pen and wash technique, employed by Michael, is suggestive, selective, and emotive, allowing him to convey his ideas and emotions through his artwork. This book is a celebration of a precious art form and a visual delight for anyone who delves into its pages.

Through his meticulous attention to light, colour, line, shape, and space in these working paintings, Michael reveals a deep love for the medium that extends beyond his architectural practice. His paintings evoke a sense of wonder and exploration, transporting the viewer into the world of architecture and inspiring a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the built environment.

In conclusion, The Art of the Architect celebrates the enduring value of drawing and watercolour painting in architecture. Michael G. Imber's work showcases the power of these traditional art forms to connect architects with their environment, facilitate communication, and create buildings that harmonise with both human habitation and the natural world. By embracing the art of hand drawing, architects can tap into a rich heritage of creativity and craftsmanship, resulting in timeless.

Weight: 2130g
Dimension: 293 x 245 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781916355491