Bayley argues civilizations are remembered by the things they leave behind

Highly respected design ‘guru’, Stephen Bayley, had a captive audience on Wednesday evening at BDP’s Manchester Studio, for pro.manchester’s first annual lecture.

Arguing the case for design versus politics, Bayley vehemently fought his corner claiming a week in politics is a long time, while good design transcends time.

The famously provocative commentator passionately talked of his belief that the most important things are immeasurable, including love, beauty and truth. He denounced politics as ‘lacking in integrity and true lasting value.’

Bayley’s negative experience of politics was highlighted by his resignation from the Millennium Dome project, after a series of disputes in 1998.

Despite his deep skepticism of the Government’s current support of creative industries, Bayley hinted at a brighter future with the creation of a greater sense of purpose through ‘making things’ and understanding every aspect of this experience, including materials, markets and skills.

Bayley captured the essence of his argument with the comment ‘a good building makes you feel better.’ Its simplicity perfectly summed up his passionate belief in the impact and experience of good design.