Portraits of the New Architecture II

See how architectural photographer, Richard Schulman is capturing the faces behind the world’s most beautiful buildings

By Sarah Emily Gilbert

Images by Richard Schulman

Unlike paintings and other forms of art that are produced directly from hand to canvas, architectural designs require an intermediate step: construction. And while we may be left awestruck by the sleek enormity of a skyscraper or the matchless ambiance of a building, we often forget the brilliant architect behind its conception.

In his newest book, Portraits of the New Architecture II, the talented architectural and portrait photographer, Richard Schulman brings architects back to the forefront. Not only does Schulman’s volume of photographs artfully capture the world’s leading architectural creations, but also their creators. As a result, Schulman personalizes our view of architecture and reestablishes the intimate connection between the architect and their designs. His striking collection of images includes sketches and designs from iconic architects and architectural firms like David Adjaye, Asymptote, Bjarke Ingles, and Annabelle Selldorf. With his photography featured in places like Vanity Fair, London Times, New York Times, and Paris Match, it’s clear that Schulman is changing the way the world sees and understands architecture. Here, the pioneering photographer shares his thoughts on some of his favorite photographs from Assouline’s Portraits of the New Architecture II:

: “Jeannie Gang is a tour de force. She is among a handful of young architects that represent the zeitgeist of our generation. She was an angel to photograph. The name Gang is global. Her Chicago ” Aqua” is a moving spirit in the Windy City.”

: “Annabelle Selldorf is quietly putting her mark on beautiful design. Our photo session was a matter of establishing trust and respect. I think I discovered a quiet brilliance during our session.”

: “Kenjo Kuma is a dream. His AIX en Provence building is a tapestry of ideas. From one view to another there was an execution of desire …he created different patterns of materials to create unique viewing experiences throughout the building.”

: “Fernando Romero is on fire. We are going to see his work and name for years to come. When I teach I always stress the marriage of materials and design. For me, Romero designed the perfect dance for my camera!”

: “Moshe Safdie is our gentle giant. His work is so graceful as he is. His work is clearly soaring in more unique ways than most architects on this planet. I could spend a lifetime finding the right note define his work, with pleasure!”

: “Roger Duffy’s “The New School”, Is the perfect compliment of ideas finding a home in one building. I am a photographer who believes that all Architecture has its moment with the natural elements.”