The Icon Exhibition - Richard Meier

For the first time in India, the work of legendary architect Richard Meier was exhibited in the form of panels and project models. Presented by Essar Steel Masterstrokes: The Icon Exhibition, the event subsumed avid morphology of his works.

Essar Steel Masterstrokes: The Icon Exhibition is a platform to showcase a lifetime of work of geniuses in the architecture and designing industry. Inspired by the revolutionising metamorphosis of Indian infrastructure and an ardour to provide global perspective to Indian professionals, the exhibition is dedicated to elate the AEC (Architecture/Engineering/Construction) industry. It aspires to be the podium through which Indian professionals can elevate their vision and interact with their counterparts on an international level; while showcasing the works of icons inspire creativity and eminence. On display are a summary of works executed by the masters that have been classified as monumental structures and who have given a whole new meaning to the words architecture and design.

Started as an on-ground exhibition; the first ever ‘Masterstrokes’ presented the illustrious architect Fumihiko Maki from Japan. After its phenomenal success the focal point was to avail it to audiences worldwide. Initiative was given in the form of an online platform at www.aecworldxp.com that had a comprehensive look at the design policy, portfolios and profiles of some of the prolific names in the industry. Prominent architect Hani Rashid donned the mantle of being the first master to feature on the online exhibition. Following Rashid in the master’s hall of fame were illustrious professionals Dr. Ken Yeang, Stefan Behnisch and Thom Mayne.

Following, the success of the online endeavour, the second on-ground Essar Steel Masterstrokes: The Icon Exhibition was organised. The four day event featured the works of Pritzker laureate Richard Meier at Sir J.J. College of Architecture, Mumbai. It coincided with the centennial celebration of the eminent college. The inauguration along with a special preview was held at the college on 16th February 2010. Present at the venue were Mr. Scott Johnson, Partner, Richard Meier & Partners Architects LLP; Mr. Vikram Amin, Executive Director Sales & Marketing, Essar Steel Business Group; Mr. Jasu Shah, Chairman, Jasubhai Group and Mr. Rajesh Tope, Minister of Higher & Technical Education, Maharashtra. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Amin exuded his delight on presenting Richard Meier’s works and said, “At Essar we always aim to promote excellence in architecture. Richard Meier is one of the few architects who have used steel extensively in his structures. We are proud to partner with IA&B for the exhibition.” Shedding light on the expansion plans of Richard Meier & Partners Architects LLP, Mr. Johnson said, “Richard has travelled to India before and he is excited to build in India. The opportunities in India are immense and the growing economy is boosting infrastructure, which helps in building good structures. I am thrilled to be here and to meet the architects and creative minds behind India’s flourishing architectural landscape”.The event attracted professionals, students and academicians from across the country. Two lectures were organised on the 17th and 18th Feb at the NCPA theatre, Mumbai for professionals and students respectively. Over the period of four days more than 2,500 visitors, including professionals from the AEC industry, students and academicians, visited the exhibition. Twelve panels showcasing eleven of Meier’s prominent projects like Perry Street, Malibu Beach House, Jubilee Church, ARP Museum etc. and four project models were exhibited. The event provided an opportunity for professionals and students to admire and learn from the master.