“If design matters are left entirely to market forces then the result is that unrestrained greed determines everything,” claims Royal Fine Art Commission chairman Lord St John of Fawsley. “To state that if one takes care of the market the quality will take care of itself is a proven nonsense. The quality is much more likely to disappear.”
Speaking as the commission publishes its 28th annual report, he described 1990 as a remarkable year for the RFAC. “We were consulted, listened to and our advice followed as never before.”
Lord St John attributes much of the success to a subtle approach. “We have never sought executive power, but have contented ourselves with exercising influence.”
Describing last year’s notable achievements, he highlighted the disposal of “insensitive” plans for Spitafields, the preservation of a noted view of Westminster Cathedral, the replacement of “wholly unsuitable” plans for a building on the north side of Cavendish Square and improvements to the substantial additions proposed at Covent Garden’s Opera House.
Looking ahead, the chairman mentioned three initiatives, all “full of promise”: first, the commission’s participation in the design process at King’s Cross, Paternoster Square and the second phase of London Bridge City. Second, the RFAC role in improving the quality of government buildings — “since the return of Mr Heseltine the prospect for better government buildings has been greatly improved” — and, finally, the new co-operation between the RFAC and the Arts Council on various projects, including the compilation of a list of 20th-century buildings worth preserving.
