first 'practice' documentary explores the process of piers taylor's architecture

a new series of architecture documentaries by critic and curator laura mark and photographer and filmmaker jim stephenson explores the process of architecture, rather than the buildings themselves. the first episode of the series, which is titled ‘practice’, focuses on piers taylor of invisible studio. ‘we follow piers as he builds a small cabin in his woodland, we speak to his friends, his family and those that have worked with him over the years, and we hear from him as he moves between his house, his studio and the woods,’ describes laura mark.

all images and film by laura mark and jim stephenson

mark and stephenson’s beautifully shot 21 minute film, which can be viewed at the top of this page, sees piers taylor explain what drove him to architecture, and how his unique pursuit of a different way of working results in homemade buildings that ‘straddle a fine line between something a farmer might have built, or something an architect might have done’. the episode’s meditative feel is enhanced by a specially commissioned score from musician and sound artist simon james.

‘practice is something that we develop slowly, with a real engagement with the architect,’ adds jim stephenson. ‘we spend time in their practice, on site and in their homes. the idea is to create something reflective, that has a slow and meditative feel.’ further episodes planned in the series will take a look at a wide variety of architects and firms including sam jacob, mary duggan, feilden fowles, and o’donnell tuomey.

to ensure that the series can continue, its creators are looking for funding on kickstarter. more information can be found here.

project info:

name: practice
project team: laura mark and jim stephenson
episode 1: piers taylor / invisible studio
date: 2020
more information: kickstarter