Behind the Scenes : Shooting the Goetheanum
A Journey Through Light, Texture, and Architectural Wonder.
When approaching the task of photographing Rudolf Steiner’s Goetheanum, I knew I was stepping into a project that would require a blend of preparation, technical precision, and an understanding of the building’s unique characteristics. The Goetheanum, located in Dornach, Switzerland, is a masterpiece of expressionist architecture, and its dreamlike complexity and spiritual significance made it an extraordinary subject.
Context and Architectural Significance
The Goetheanum, named after the German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, serves as the world center for the Anthroposophical Society. Designed by Rudolf Steiner, the building was constructed between 1924 and 1928 after the original Goetheanum, completed in 1920, was tragically destroyed by fire on New Year's Eve in 1922. The second Goetheanum stands as a monument to Steiner’s philosophical and architectural vision, embodying organic forms and an innovative use of materials, such as reinforced concrete, that were groundbreaking for its time.
Construction of the first Goetheanum in 1914
The building’s design reflects Steiner’s anthroposophical principles, aiming to create a space that harmonizes with the human spirit. Its organic shapes, flowing lines, and the use of reinforced concrete were revolutionary, influencing modernist and expressionist architecture. The Goetheanum's exterior, with its sculpted concrete surfaces, and the vibrant interior spaces, filled with colorful murals and intricate details, present a compelling contrast and a visual feast for photographers.
Understanding the structure / Preliminary research
Before embarking on the Goetheanum project, I immersed myself in research. Understanding the building's background, the vision of Rudolf Steiner, and the architectural features were crucial steps. I studied floor plans and the layout of different spaces within the building. This preparatory work helped me to fully grasp the essence of the Goetheanum.
Digital scouting was an essential part of my process. I searched for existing images of the Goetheanum to better understand its various spaces, from the monumental staircase at the front of the building to the colorful staircases and theater hall. Creating a mood board from these images was invaluable in planning my shots and envisioning the final series.
Using the Sun Seeker app, I analyzed how the light interacted with the building throughout the day. This helped me identify the optimal times for capturing the building’s unique textures and the interplay of light and shadow. For example, I knew I needed to photograph the staircase in the morning to achieve an even lighting, while the light starting at 3 pm or 8pm would create a different feel altogether.
Sun throughout the day at the Goetheanum via the Seeker App
Light at 3pm vs 8pm
The Photographic Process
In my photographic process, using a tripod and working slowly ensures that every shot is deliberate and meticulously composed. My approach was to emphasize the monumental aspects and highlight the unique textures. This building is exceptionally coherent and minimalist, even in its signage, which is rare for a public structure.
All photos were shot with my beloved Canon tilt-shift lenses, the 24mm and 50mm versions.
I aimed to capture the stark contrast between the brutalist concrete staircase and the more playful, colorful areas. The use of a tripod allowed for longer exposures, which was particularly useful in the low-light spaces within the building, ensuring sharp images and precise compositions. Exposures ranged from 1/10th to 2.5 seconds.
Emphasizing Light and Texture
One of the most compelling aspects of the Goetheanum is how light interacts with its surfaces. The play of light and shadow across the textured concrete creates a dynamic visual experience. I focused on capturing this interplay to highlight the building’s form and structure. The natural light streaming through the windows at different times of the day enhanced the ethereal quality of the interiors, adding depth and dimension to my photographs.
Photographing the Goetheanum was an incredibly rewarding experience that went beyond a mere technical exercise. I thoroughly enjoyed spending an entire day immersed in this architectural marvel, allowing myself to play with natural light and explore every nook and cranny of the building. The process of planning each shot and then seeing how the light interacted with the textures and shapes was both exhilarating and fulfilling. I highly recommend visiting this building if you are ever in Basel.
