About the Course
Burning Down the Haus: Broadening Perspectives on British Modernism
Six-week course held on Tuesdays 29 October, 5, 12, 19, 26 November and 3 December 2019, 6pm to 8pm
For ages 18+ and all abilities
A century after the renowned Bauhaus School was founded in Germany, take a fresh look at the relationship between Bauhaus and Britain. Join leading historian and author of ‘Bauhaus Goes West’ (2019) Dr Alan Powers, and a host of guest experts, in examining the role of the Bauhaus in the development of Modernism in Britain.
Our course title conveys an irreverent but constructive approach. Unquestionably, the Bauhaus occupied a significant presence in British design consciousness after 1933 – largely due to the arrival of Walter Gropius and other émigré architects and designers. This has, however, obscured parallel movements in Britain and elsewhere and closer examination reveals a more interesting and complex story across the fields of art, product design, education and architecture. Over six weeks you’ll hear from experts in architectural and cultural history and engage with a range of cultural issues from 20th-century Britain that still have contemporary relevance.
Timed to coincide with the RIBA’s new autumn exhibition, ‘Beyond Bauhaus: Modernism in Britain 1933-66’, you’ll also hear from exhibition curators and have exclusive access to original drawings, photographs, archive manuscripts, books, journals and ephemera from the RIBA’s world-class architectural collections.
A collaboration between the RIBA and the Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain (SAHGB).
Course leaders
This course is led by Dr Alan Powers and Dr Neal Shasore (University of Liverpool). Guest contributors include Dr Julian Holder (University of Oxford), Magnus Englund (Isokon Gallery) and Dr Elizabeth Darling (Oxford Brookes University).
Course details
This course will take place over six consecutive Tuesday evenings, 6pm to 8pm.
For ages 18+. No previous experience necessary. A willingness to undertake the recommended advance reading and to participate in group discussion will help you get the most from this course.
Ticket includes glass of wine or soft drink during each session.
Read the full course outline (PDF, 1.04 MB)
Online booking in advance is essential.
For other learning workshops, see our adult learning page.
Accessibility
We strive to ensure our events are accessible for wheelchair users. Please be aware that some parts of the building are not step free and we will need to make arrangements for you. To discuss any access requirements please contact us in advance.
Prices
- £210 standard ticket
- £180 for RIBA Members, Students, Friends or SAHGB Members
