The trailblazing Scottish-Japanese duo Ushida Findlay left an indelible mark on the world of architecture with their boundary-pushing style that defied conventions and blurred the lines between art and design. A captivating new exhibition at V&A Dundee is a fitting tribute to the visionary Kathryn Findlay, who paired her Celtic sensibilities with Eisaku Ushida's Japanese flair to create a truly unique aesthetic.
Their work was not just about building structures, but crafting dreamlike experiences that transported viewers into an alternate reality. Take Tokyo's 'Soft and Hairy House', for instance – this curvaceous masterpiece reimagined the traditional courtyard plan with rounded contours and a shaggy roof garden that seemed plucked straight from a Hollywood fantasy.
Another standout project, the Truss Wall House, was more akin to a living sculpture than a conventional home. Its conch-like form echoed the fluidity of natural elements like mutated shells or whale bones washed ashore, making it an arresting example of their design philosophy, which Findlay herself described as 'carving spaces from a solid mass rather than building a frame to be filled'. This organic approach, she explained, allowed the shape to emerge from the internal spaces and movement.
The V&A Dundee exhibition is a poignant homecoming for Kathryn Findlay's work, showcasing a treasure trove of archive materials that chart her remarkable career. From photographs and drawings to models and sketchbooks, each item provides a glimpse into the creative process of an architect who left an indelible mark on Scotland's architectural landscape.
A true pioneer in every sense, Kathryn Findlay was the first female architect to become a Scottish academician. Her unconventional trajectory took her from rural Angus to international acclaim, with Dundee playing a significant role in her journey – including a pivotal introduction that led to the creation of the current V&A Dundee building itself. The exhibition is not only a celebration of her achievements but also a poignant reminder of the talent lost too soon.
With this retrospective, the V&A Dundee pays tribute to Kathryn Findlay's enduring legacy, which will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of architects and designers. As visitors step into this world of curvaceous forms, fractal geometries, and surreal landscapes, they'll be transported by the same creative energy that drove Findlay's innovative designs.