Luis Barragán von René Burri

One of the key figures in modern architecture, Luis Barragán's (1902-88) influence has travelled far beyond his Mexican homeland, culminating in his reception of architecture's most prestigious award, the Pritzker Prize, in 1980. His architecture represents a strongly personal vision. Inspired by the vernacular style of his native country, his passion for Moorish architecture and desire for spiritual beauty and harmony with nature, he set about creating serenity and enchantment in his buildings and gardens. Photographer René Burri visited Barragán and photographed his work on several trips to Mexico in the 1960s and 70s. Here Burri pays tribute to his friend, reflecting the spirit of the man, capturing the essence of his architecture, and creating the sense of peace and contemplation that is at the heart of his work.

Photographer and film-maker René Burri was born in Switzerland and studied at the Zurich School of Art. At the age of 23 he published his first story in Life magazine and three years later, in 1959 he became a full member of the now legendary photo agency Magnum. A monograph that charts his entire career is also published by Phaidon.