Frank Gehry

As part of the exhibition, Frank Gehry, Architect: Designs for Museums, currently on view at The Millennium Court Arts Centre (MCAC) in Portadown, we are delighted to present a day of discussion and film about art and architecture. Looking at Architecture is full-day event exploring and investigating the architecture both of museums and of our urban spaces. Architects, planners, artists, writers and the general public are invited to contribute to open panel discussions in morning and afternoon sessions. The days events will also include the UK and Ireland premiere of Sketches of Frank Gehry, produced by Ultan Guilfoyle, and directed by Sidney Pollack. Ultan Guilfoyle will present the film, and will be available to answer questions after the film.

11.30 am - 1.30 pm
The Bilbao Effect/Making Creative Cities: A Discussion on art, architecture and urban regeneration

A discussion on art, architecture and urban regeneration. Frank Gehrys Guggenheim put Bilbao on the map. What role does iconic architecture fulfil in urban regeneration and planning, and how do these superstar buildings actually operate as places in which to live and work How do architecture and culture fit together with the needs of those living in hitherto neglected areas Projects like the Laganside Development, Breaking Ground at Ballymun and the development of Dublins Docklands are exploring ways to enhance the fabric of their spaces with art and architecture, but are these cultural programmes just window dressing

Panellists: Joy Gerrard artist, Mary McCarthy Arts Manager Dublin Docklands Development Authority, Ciaran Mackel architect Mackel and Doherty Architects, Tarla Mac Gabhann architect MacGabhann Architects. Moderator: Gemma Tipton Writer on art and architecture.

2.30 pm - 4.30 pm
Gallery Spaces/Architecture and Art: A Discussion on the architecture of the gallery space

Since Frank Gehrys Guggenheim Bilbao burst onto the scene, discussions about the architecture of our art spaces have expanded to embrace ideas of sculptural architecture and the building as a work of art itself. So whats best White cubes or arabesques? Is there any such thing as the idea space for showing art? What do artists like Curators Visitors? How much does the container affect the contained?

Panellists: Brendan Earley artist, Declan Long lecturer and curator, Shelley McNamara Architect Grafton Architects, Sheila O'Donnell architect ODonnell + Tuomey Architects , John Tuomey architect ODonnell + Tuomey Architects. Moderator: Gemma Tipton Writer on art and architecture.

6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Film screening Sketches of Frank Gehry
Directed by Sidney Pollack, produced by Ultan Guilfoyle

Looking at Architecture is open to practitioners and to the public and is free of charge, with tea and coffee provided. However, spaces are limited and must be reserved in advance. To reserve your space please contact MCAC.

The show is financially supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Irelands Architecture Special Initiative, Portadown 2000, the Craigavon Borough Council, Arts & Business, Harry Porter Architects, Portadown Architects Group, Erco Lighting,High Street Mall and Building Design Partnership (BDP).