Le dessin de Mackintosh de la 'House for an art lover' 1901

Charles Rennie Mackintosh created this drawing of the ‘House for an Art Lover’ with ink on paper. The ‘House for an Art Lover’ was originally a competition entry for a design that was to reflect new art trends. Mackintosh's attempt to synthesize architectural modernism with art nouveau was innovative for Scotland at the turn of the century. But the drawing itself provides crucial insights into the institutional conditions that shape art’s production and reception. It reveals a tension between his aspirations for architectural reform and the conservative norms of the British art establishment at the time. While his design pushed the boundaries of domestic architecture, its unbuilt status speaks to the challenges faced by progressive artists seeking recognition. To fully appreciate Mackintosh's drawing, one must consider the social and institutional contexts that fostered his creative vision, as well as the limitations he encountered. By consulting archives, architectural journals, and period criticism, we may better understand the complex interplay between art, society, and the built environment.