Developed in conjunction with the Charlotte chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art’s new Architecture + Film series investigates themes in modern and contemporary architecture through the lens of film.

On February 17, the museum will screen Urban Goddess: Jane Jacobs Reconsidered. The late activist and author is best known for challenging the accepted norms of urban design in New York, Toronto and Vancouver in the 1960s. In her 1961 book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, Jacobs investigated what she called the rigidness of city planners, architects, developers and politicians as they designed cities.

The documentary examines how her legacy has affected urban planning, and also follows recent debate between citizens, developers and municipal officials on major projects in Brooklyn and Toronto. Interviews with Jacobs are combined with comments from an urbanist at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, a community activist in Toronto, and a former Vancouver city planner.

A short presentation led by Terry Shook, founding partner of the design firm Shook Kelley, will precede the screening.

Running time: 52 minutes

The event reception begins at 6 p.m., the discussion and film screening at 7 p.m. Please enter through the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.

TICKETS

Tickets are $15 and include access to museum galleries, light bites and one drink voucher. Tickets may be purchased online, by phone 704.353.9200 or at the visitor services desk.

Upcoming Architecture + Film offerings:

March 16 – My Architect: A Son’s Journey

April 20 – Eames: The Architect and the Painter

May 18 – How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster

June 15 – Citizen Architect: Samuel Mockbee and the Spirit of the Rural Studio

The Bechtler's Architecture + Film series is sponsored by HDR