John Portman & Associates Celebrates Portmans’ America Book Launch

On September 20th, John Portman & Associates celebrated the launch of architectural photographer Iwan Baan’s new photographs commissioned for the recent book, Portman’s America and Other Speculations (edited by GSD dean Mohsen Mostafavi), which visually documents our unique history spanning over six decades. Filled with Mr. Portman’s iconic projects, the book is a beautiful visual representation of John Portman’s rich history and influence on Atlanta, culture, and the rest of the country.

Guests arrived at the High Museum of Art to toast the book’s launch, and many of those in attendance have played a pivotal role in Portman’s past, present, and future. 300 influential architects, designers, artists, and developers all came in celebration of the release.

Phil Harrison from Perkins + WIll introduced the book in front of a crowd that included guests from Harvard Graduate school of Design, AIA Atlanta, and the High Museum of Art. Remarks from Mack Scogin & Merrill Elam from Mack Scogin & Merill Architects and Michael Hays, Scott Cohen and Beth Kramer from Harvard Graduate School of Design followed.

Mohsen Mostafavi, the book’s editor, and Iwan Baan both shared their perspectives on capturing and describing Portman’s iconic work through words and photography.

Architecture and photography enthusiasts and the industry’s elite shared special memories during the celebration, with ending remarks by John Portman himself. At the celebration, the Woodruff Arts Center Beauchamp C. Carr Gallery featured an exhibition of original photographs by Iwan Baan.