The Tragedy of Sydney

This two-page undated article about the Sydney Opera House controversy and Jørn Utzon’s resignation from the commission was written by Boyd, perhaps for publication in The Australian newspaper, but never published. In it, Boyd talks about the two sides of the local profession, those who were in support and those who were against Utzon retaining the Opera House commission. Controversially, Boyd writes of the position of the NSW Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, whose Council, despite international support from architects Paul Rudolph and Louis Kahn, appeared not to support Utzon to the degree which might have been expected. NSW Chapter President Ron Gilling is quoted, giving one reason for the Chapter’s lack of support: that Utzon “never once sought advice or assistance from his Institute.” 

Photo: Robin Boyd Foundation