THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

The Sydney opera house, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and was completed in 1973. It not only became the most emblematic landmark associated with Australia but has had phenomenal influence on generations of architects thereafter such as Frank O’Gehry.

I did not manage to attend a guided tour of the building while I was in Sydney but I did visit on foot whilst strolling Sydney Harbour and I also experienced the exterior of the building by ferry when travelling from the Harbour to Manly Beach (ferry being a mode of public transport in Sydney).

It is indeed a fine example of sculptural architecture, it transforms from every viewpoint, both its own form and the contextual urban-scape and landscape and its relationship with it.  And, although geometric in form, it is not rigid but undeniably expressive of movement, like that of a flower blooming, a sailing vessel or a winged creature in motion. It therefore expresses beauty both of that which is organic and man-made. There is also an ‘upward’ and ‘forward’ sense to this building’s movement which to me signifies ideals of hope and progress.