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Impressions of Arthur Erickson

Broadcast Date: Aug. 19, 1973

"Whatever you build should enhance the surroundings." In this conversation with Ramsay Cook, Arthur Erickson talks about his philosophy of architectural design and the environment. He discusses the differences between North American and European notions about space and how it should be occupied.

Impressions of Arthur Erickson

• Arthur Erickson was born in Vancouver in 1924.

• Erickson studied at the University of British Columbia and McGill University, completing his education and architectural training in 1950. Three years later, after service in the Canadian Armed Forces, Erickson formed his first company with Geoffrey Massey. Their first success was winning the design bid for Simon Fraser University in 1963 that brought them international attention.

• In a speech delivered to McGill University's University of Architecture in 2000, Erickson said "Rationalism is the enemy of art though necessary as a basis for architecture. But the heart, not the head, must be the guide."

• Erickson died May 20, 2009. He was fondly remembered by colleagues and friends. A photo essay of his work can be found at CBC.ca/arts.

Impressions of Arthur Erickson

Medium: Television

Program: Impressions

Broadcast Date: Aug. 19, 1973

Guest(s): Arthur Erickson

Interviewer: Ramsay Cook

Duration: 26:54

Last updated:
May 22, 2009