Developed in conjunction with the Charlotte chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art’s Architecture + Film series investigates themes in modern and contemporary architecture through the lens of film.

On May 18, the museum will screen How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster. The documentary follows architect Norman Foster’s unending quest to improve the quality of life through design. By investigating his origins to how his dreams and influences inspired the design of emblematic projects such as the world’s largest building to its tallest bridge, Foster offers some striking solutions to humanity’s increasing demand on urban centers. Featured in the film are people who have collaborated with Foster including musician Bono, sculptor Anish Kapoor and artists Richard Serra, Cai Guo-Qiang and Richard Long.

Foster is the founder and chairman of Foster + Partners, a worldwide practice with offices in more than 20 countries. The firm’s work includes the Beijing Airport, Millau Viaduct in France, the Swiss Re in London, the Great Court at the British Museum in London, the Hearst Tower in New York and the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

A short presentation led by David Walters, director of the Master of Urban Design program at UNC Charlotte and senior urban designer at the Lawrence Group, will precede the screening.

Running time: 78 minutes.

TICKETS

Tickets are $15 and include access to museum galleries, light bites and one drink ticket. Tickets may be purchased online, by phone 704.353.9200 or at the visitor services desk.

Upcoming Architecture + Film Offerings

June 15 – Citizen Architect: Samuel Mockbee and the Spirit of the Rural Studio

July 20 – Regular or Super: Views on Mies van der Rohe

August 1– Sketches of Frank Gehry

September 21 – Bird’s Nest: Herzog & de Meuron in China

October 19 – Philip Johnson: Diary of an Eccentric Architect

November 16 – Louis Sullivan: The Struggle for American Architecture

Architecture + Film Series Sponsor

Image: The Swiss Re building in London. First Run Features photo.