At this year’s Creative Architects event, (organised by Chronos Studeos) Theo Lawson, the visionary architect behind Lagos’ Freedom Park, spoke on finding one’s identity as a creative in the field of architecture.
He shared insights into self discovery using his experience as a case study urging the young audience to seek out channels or outlets for their creativity. Here’s some of the ‘wisdom’ he had to offer as seen on the Chronos Studeos Blog.
WORDS BY DEBORAH ADEFOLALU
Drawing a bridge between his experiences learning and practicing architecture in two very different generations and cultures, Theo Lawson (founder of Total Consult Ltd and partner at Lawson+Odeinde) speaks about his background in art and how that has informed his work over the years.
The very versatile architect, who was the first speaker at Creative Architects 2017 (Lagos) shared in a quiet, witty “wise old owl” fashion who he was, and lessons he had learned. “Every idea has its time”, says Lawson, “you may just be its messenger.”
Well-known for his restorative projects- the Freedom Park and Kalkuta Museum, he gives an insider’s account of how those remarkable projects were birthed and executed. He ends his presentation by very briefly, running through his life lessons. A few are:
- Know yourself and what you stand for.
- As much as you can, be honest. Especially to yourself.
- Think of providing a solution to a problem and not imposing a vision.
- Know the difference between style and fashion.
- Care about your client, not your ego.
It was a long list, really! Watch this inspiring video to get a pointer to finding WHO YOUR ARE and how you can channel that knowledge as a creative person.
