At Avid Learning, we believe that architecture is a living embodiment of our cultural narrative, intricately woven into the identity of our community. The architectural marvels are not mere structures, they are pulsating threads seamlessly integrated into the fabric of our shared heritage.
On 26th February 2024, Consulate General of Switzerland in Mumbai, Royal Opera House, Mumbai, and Avid Learning were proud to present Architecture Speaks, an insightful evening with Internationally Celebrated Swiss Architect and Pritzker Laureate Peter Zumthor in conversation with Conservation Architect Abha Narain Lambah. We had received around 1700+ registrations for the program, Over 550+ people attended the program and it garnered over 1300+ viewership via YouTube live feed. The attendees included both aspiring architects and established professionals, students from top-tier architectural institutions in India, esteemed experts and seasoned practitioners from the architectural community. The illustrious Royal Opera House, a poignant emblem of architectural heritage, stood as the perfect setting for this extraordinary exchange.
The special event was organized as part of the Swiss-Indian friendship jubilee celebrations, marking 75 years of bilateral relations. It symbolized the enduring cultural and diplomatic ties that had strengthened the bond between Switzerland and India. The conversation between Peter Zumthor and Abha Narain Lambah was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and collaboration, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. In the spirit of shared heritage, the evening promised to be a celebration of the beauty of architecture as a universal language that transcended borders.
While predominantly rooted in Switzerland, Peter Zumthor’s architectural influence extends across international borders, with noteworthy projects spanning Germany, Austria, The Netherlands, England, Spain, Norway, Finland, and the United States. His extensive portfolio reflects a mastery that seamlessly integrates contemporary design with the rich tapestry of historical layers. This engaging conversation unraveled the intricacies of Zumthor’s minimalist and innovative design principles, an exploration of the architectural legacy crafted by a visionary whose impact resonates across continents.
This one-of-a-kind event was the next chapter in Avid Learning’s artistic partnership with the Consulate General of Switzerland in Mumbai. Building on the success of previous collaborations, such as the historic performance of the Indian Navy Band and the Swiss Armed Forces Brass Band, and the recent Art Salon with Swiss Visual Artist, Filmmaker, and Writer Hannes Schüpbach, this collaboration reinforces the commitment to diplomatic ties, cultural exchanges, and mutual respect for heritage. Avid Learning continues to be the cultural catalyst in creating moments that spark artistic curiosity, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse art forms and strengthening cultural ties between nations