On Restoring Modernism: The Purist and The Pragmatist

A presentation by Michael Boyd in collaboration with Decorative Arts and Design Council of LACMA and Edward Cella Art and Architecture Join noted designer and collector Michael Boyd Tuesday, June 12 at 6:30pm as he discusses the reconciliation of the role of the homeowner with that of a guardian, in the rehabilitation of modernist domestic architecture. Founder of BoydDesign, a design firm with an emphasis on furniture, interior, and garden design, as well as a consulting firm for the restoration and preservation of modernist architecture, Michael Boyd has supervised the restoration of homes designed by Craig Ellwood, John Lautner, Paul Rudolph, Oscar Niemeyer, Richard Neutra, and R.M. Schindler, among others. The lecture will address the exhibition PLANEfurniture: types + prototypes, and how the designer seeks invisibility and transparency with new design, exactly as he does with his modernist architectural conservation work. Boyd has insights into the adaptability and timelessness of modernist design philosophy; as well as modernism’s role as a model for continuing design solutions. Boyd appeals for the need to be mindful as a designer of the balance between a purist approach and a pragmatic approach--a dual goal--a truthful convergence between art and life. Michael Boyd is a Los Angeles based designer, writer, and collector of vintage modern design. Boyd curated and designed the installation of the architecture and design section of the exhibition, Birth of Cool: California Art, Design, and Culture at Midcentury at the Orange County Museum of Art, and his personal collection was featured at SFMOMA in an exhibition entitled, Sitting on the Edge: Modernist Design from the Collection of Michael and Gabrielle Boyd. He regularly contributes essays on the subject of Modernism for International publications. He serves as an advisor to several museums and institutions regarding modern design and architecture. Where: A+D Museum When: Tuesday June 12, 6:30pm Reception to follow at Edward Cella Art+Architecture at 6018 Wilshire Blvd. Admission: $10 General, $5 Students w/ valid ID, A+D Members and LACMA Decorative Arts and Design Council FREE http://aplusd.org/incollaboration