P. Morton Shand: The Critic Behind British Modernism
Alborz Dianat explains the complex history of architectural critic P. Morton Shand, a key promoter of Modernism in interwar Britain.
Thursday 16 Nov 2023 | 18:30 - 20:30 GMT
Though often absent in histories, Philip Morton Shand (1888-1960) exerted exceptional influence on Modernism in the 1930s. The London-based critic forged friendships with renowned designers including Walter Gropius, Alvar Aalto and Le Corbusier, drawing Britain closer to Europe. Shand’s work behind the scenes enabled exhibitions, emigrations and architectural commissions, closely related to activities at the Lawn Road Flats. Based on recent discoveries made through his archive, this talk reveals Shand’s contributions to architecture.
Alborz Dianat is a researcher at University College Dublin, holding a PhD in Architectural History from the University of Edinburgh. His research explores the interchanges between British and European Modernism.