pro.manchester teams up with BDP and University for first annual lecture

Design guru Stephen Bayley to share his wit and wisdom on architecture and politics

pro.manchester has announced its first annual lecture, an event held in partnership with the Manchester office of the UK’s largest design practice BDP and The University of Manchester’s Alumni Association.

Titled ‘Architecture is more important than politics’ it will be given by cultural commentator and writer Stephen Bayley at BDP’s recently-opened Manchester studio on Wednesday 3 March.

Bayley is a famous alumnus of the university - “I was at Manchester 1969-1972 and did History of Art, girls and Beaujolais,” he says - and with a looming general election, his lecture promises to be a witty and provocative insight into modern culture.

He came to prominence as a colourful and outspoken commentator on cultural and design issues in the 1980s. Sir Terence Conran chose him to head up Britain’s first  permanent exhibition of design at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and he went on to become chief executive  of the Design Museum. In 1989 he was made a Chevalier de L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, France's top artistic honour, by the French Minister of Culture.

Bayley was appointed as the creative director of the exhibition at the Millennium Dome in Greenwich, and after a series of disputes he resigned in 1998, citing ministerial interference.
Bayley is a columnist for The Times, and his recent books include Life’s a Pitch and Woman as Design. His next book will be titled Ugly.

John Ashcroft, chief executive of pro.manchester, said: “As one of the world’s best known commentators on architecture and modern culture, we look forward to getting an insight into Stephen’s observations on style and design. Returning to his university roots, Stephen’s lecture will include generous measures of wit, passion and provocation as he gives his unique take on the importance of architecture in a contemporary world.”

Gavin Elliott, chairman of the BDP Manchester Studio, added: “We are thrilled and delighted that Stephen Bayley has accepted the invitation to talk at this event.

Professor Simon Guy, Head of School - School of Environment and Development at the University of Manchester “His wit and insight is renowned and I’m sure his talk will be stimulating and provocative at such an important time for both the city of Manchester and the country as a whole.”

“It will be pleasure to work with our partners BDP and pro-manchester to see him back in Manchester, and hear Stephen’s thoughts on the complex relationship between architecture and politics.”

Ticket details:  £40 plus VAT per person

To book online click here