Filmmaker Jake Gorst premieres his new short documentary Curating Modernism, exploring the challenges of preserving 20th century Modern architecture in the United States.
Twentieth-century Modern architecture in the United States is increasingly at risk. While preservation efforts often focus on 18th and 19th century landmarks, Modernist structures are too frequently dismissed as disposable, sometimes due to their modest scale. As a result, many architecturally significant examples have been demolished for redevelopment or altered beyond recognition. Why should Modern architecture be preserved, and how can this be achieved while balancing the functional demands of contemporary life? These urgent questions are at the heart of a new 30-minute documentary.
Jake Gorst is an Award-winning documentary filmmaker, writer and president of Mainspring Narrative Films. With Tracey Rennie Gorst, their past films include: New England Modernism: Revolutionary Architecture in the 20th Century (2024); Frey: The Architectural Interpreter (2020, Design Onscreen); Frey: The Architectural Envoy (2018, Design Onscreen); The Nature of Modernism: E. Stewart Williams, Architect (2014, Design Onscreen); Modern Tide: Midcentury Architecture on Long Island (2012, Design Onscreen); William Krisel, Architect (2010, Design Onscreen); Journeyman Architect: The Life and Work of Donald Wexler (2009, Design Onscreen); Desert Utopia: Midcentury Architecture in Palm Springs (2006, Design Onscreen); Leisurama (2005). Jake is the author of Andrew Geller. Deconstructed (2015, Glitterati, Inc).
Run time: 30 minutes. Following the film will be a Q+A with director Jake Gorst.
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