Discover the Profound Impact of Le Corbusier and SD Sharma on Modernist Architecture at the A3 Foundation Exhibition, Reports SURFACES REPORTER (SR)
The A3 Foundation, in collaboration with the Government Museum and Art Gallery, has launched a month-long exhibition to honor the architectural legacy of Le Corbusier and Ar. Shivdatt Sharma. Opening on January 16, 2025, the event sheds light on the profound impact these two architects had on the development of Chandigarh and their lasting influence on global modernist architecture.
The exhibition provides visitors with a comprehensive look at the careers of both Le Corbusier and SD Sharma. Among the highlights is a remarkable display of 150 models of Le Corbusier's buildings, curated by Singaporean architect Rene Tan. These models, which have toured 22 countries, are being shown in Chandigarh for the first time, offering a fresh international perspective on Le Corbusier’s work. In addition, approximately 70 panels chronicle Ar. Shivdatt Sharma’s six-decade career, illustrating his contributions to the city and his adaptation of modernist principles in the Indian context.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including Brigitte Bouvier, director of the Foundation Le Corbusier in Paris, who officially opened the event with other dignitaries. Ar. Rene Tan, who curated the models of Le Corbusier’s buildings, joined the event, further strengthening the global dialogue on the significance of Chandigarh’s modernist architecture.
From (L-R) : Ar. Rene Tan RT+Q Architects, Singapore; Brigitte Bouvier, Director, Fondation Le Corbusier, Paris; Ar.Shivdutt Sharma, Eminent Architect and Planner, Chandigarh; Ar. Lillian Tay, Design Principal at VERITAS Architects and Ar. Sangeet Sharma, Partner at SD Sharma & Associates and Founder of A3 Foundation.
In his welcome address, Ar. Sangeet Sharma, son of Ar. Shivdatt Sharma, Partner at SD Sharma & Associates, and Founder of A3 Foundation, extended a warm greeting to everyone, highlighting the profound global impact of Chandigarh Modernism. He noted that when people from abroad learn that he is from Chandigarh, they show him a heightened level of respect. However, he expressed regret that the people within Chandigarh itself often fail to recognize the significance of this cultural heritage.
Following the warm welcome, Ar. Rene Tan, RT+Q Architects, Singapore was introduced, followed by his insightful presentation on the models of Le Corbusier's buildings he had designed. These models represent both Le Corbusier's built and unbuilt projects. Subsequently, Brigitte Bouvier, Director of the Le Corbusier Foundation in Paris, was introduced. In her address, she expressed her gratitude to the Indian audience for allowing India to become the canvas for Le Corbusier's dream. During her presentation, she shared a letter that Le Corbusier had written to his wife, Yvonne, in which he stated, "Von, I’m telling you at last, I am going to do my life’s work here. The work of my life, among the people, the Indians, who are extraordinarily civilized."
The program continued with the introduction of Ar. Shivdatt Sharma, who delivered a compelling speech, sharing his expertise. He emphasized, "Indeed, Chandigarh was Le Corbusier's life's dream." The inauguration of Corbusier's models was held, followed by the viewing of the exhibition. This was succeeded by the inauguration of Ar. Shivdatt Sharma's exhibition, which attendees had the opportunity to explore.
The exhibition holds significant cultural and educational value. It not only celebrates the legacy of Le Corbusier and Ar. Shivdatt Sharma but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of architects and urban planners. By showcasing the enduring influence of these two architects, the event emphasizes the importance of Chandigarh’s place in the history of modern architecture. The Government Museum and Art Gallery, itself a product of Le Corbusier’s design philosophy, provides the perfect backdrop for this tribute. Its open-plan layout, a key feature of modernist architecture, aligns with the themes of the exhibition, underscoring the interconnectedness of art, culture, and architecture in Chandigarh’s identity.
After a lunch break and a press conference, participants reconvened in the auditorium for the afternoon session. Ar. Lillian Tay, Design Principal at VERITAS Architects, was introduced and delivered a thought-provoking lecture. Her presentation showcased numerous buildings in Malaysia, both existing and former, built in the 1960s and exemplified the principles of modernism.
Ar. Sourabh Gupta, Founder, Studio Archohm, New Delhi
Her presentation was followed by an introduction to Ar. Sourabh Gupta, Founder, Studio Archohm, New Delhi, who also delivered an enriching discourse. He cited a practical example of how the design of public spaces needs to be addressed, particularly in the context of heritage and contemporary realities. He highlighted the work done by his firm, Studio Archohm, in the city of Agra, which is home to numerous historical monuments.
The event concluded with a felicitation and a vote of thanks, graciously presented by Ar. Purnima Sharma.
Ar. Shivdatt Sharma, Ar. Purnima Sharma and Ar. Sangeet Sharma
As the exhibition continues throughout January, it offers an invaluable opportunity for visitors to engage with the city’s architectural history and explore the lasting impact of two of the 20th century’s most influential architects. Through events like these, Chandigarh’s architectural heritage remains a living, evolving part of its identity, continuing to inspire and influence the world far beyond its borders.