High Museum to Screen New John Portman Documentary on June 16
May 24,2011
The High Museum of Art will screen a new documentary by Emmy-winning producer Ben Loeterman that explores the life and work of Atlanta-based architect and artist John Portman. The film uses interviews with architecture and art critics, business associates and Portman himself to tell the story of the world-renowned architect. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with producer Ben Loeterman, John Portman’s longtime advisor Mickey Steinberg and Atlanta architect Mack Scogin. The program will be held in the Richard H. Rich Theatre, located in the Memorial Arts Building, adjacent to the High at Peachtree and 15th Streets. A reception will be held after the program.
Tickets
Tickets are free but must be reserved in advance due to limited seating. Guests may reserve no more than two tickets per person through the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office at 404-733-5000. Reserved tickets that have not been picked up will be released 10 minutes after the program begins. Guests without reserved tickets may be admitted if seating is available. Tickets to the Museum are sold separately.
Film Description
Once a maverick who was nearly run out of the American Institute of Architects, John Portman is now recognized as one of the most innovative and imitated architects. Over 45 years, Portman’s iconic urban structures and eye-popping interiors have risen in 60 cities on four continents to redefine cityscapes and skylines in several American cities as well as major cities in China and around the world. The film captures Portman’s approach in an intimate portrait that, by turn, assesses and appreciates his work. Dramatic time-lapse footage shows off Portman’s buildings at their best—often in moving sunlight that washes over their facades and spaces.
About the Filmmaker
Ben Loeterman is a prolific writer/director/producer of historical and public affairs documentaries who founded Ben Loeterman Productions, Inc. (BLPI) in 1996. His last effort, “The People v. Leo Frank” broadcast nationally on PBS and received extraordinary reviews in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and Washington Post. Loeterman’s work appeared on the first 18 seasons of the PBS current affairs series “Frontline” and includes three films for the PBS history series “American Experience.” He has won two Emmys and two duPont-Columbia awards.
Support
Support for “John Portman: A Life of Building” has been provided by Central Atlanta Progress