“From Inside Out: the architecture of Peter Zumthor”, interview with Wim Wenders and Peter Zumthor

Wim Wenders and Peter Zumthor, the acclaimed filmmaker and architect respectively, are the subjects of the documentary From Inside Out: the architecture of Peter Zumthor, which was premiered at the Venice International Film Festival. This interview explores the long journey of creating this film, which chronicles Zumthor’s architectural process and artistic philosophy over a span of fourteen years.

Main topics explored include the origins of the documentary project and its evolution over time

The long-term process of making From Inside Out: the architecture of Peter Zumthor was a central theme. Wim Wenders explained how the film started as a brief commission for the architectural biennale in 2012 and grew into a fourteen-year endeavor. The project involved following the construction of two major buildings, in Los Angeles and Basel, from inception to completion. Wenders emphasized how external factors like pandemics, political issues, and financing hurdles extended the timeline, demonstrating how architecture and filmmaking can be deeply interconnected in the artistic process. The patience and persistence involved in documenting these works revealed the intricate relationship between architecture and time in the creation of a film about Zumthor.

Understanding Peter Zumthor’s creative process

This was another key focus. Zumthor described his approach as deeply rooted in the emotional and empathetic immersion into each project. He highlighted the importance of understanding the place and history behind a building, emphasizing that his work is an artistic process based on empathy rather than just intellectual analysis. He shared how his sensitivity to the site and his own biography influence his architectural choices, aiming to craft buildings that tell a meaningful story and carry a good history. The concept of a perfect building was discussed as one that feels right at the end, with details aligning perfectly, making the effort worthwhile despite the years of development.

How creative approaches evolve over the years

Wenders reflected on the societal and personal changes that have influenced his filmmaking, noting how shared experiences, like growing up near the Rhine River, shape their artistic visions. Zumthor’s process remains committed to an artistic and emotional understanding of each project, illustrating how personal biography and cultural context inform their work. Both creators acknowledged that their ongoing engagement with their crafts continues to be driven by a shared desire to create meaningful art that resonates deeply with audiences and users alike.

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