Festival of Britain sketch by Hugh Casson

Hugh Casson first leapt to prominence when he was appointed Director of Architecture for the Festival of Britain at the age for 38. His ferocious energy, creative ability, commitment and the charm which he exercised on everybody connected with the 1951 Festival did more than anything guarantee its huge success. He was knighted for his efforts and remained in the public eye for the rest of his career.

Below are some links to a few of the articles which Hugh Casson wrote about The Festival;

Adventure of the South Bank (from the Festival of Britain Preview and Guide)

South Bank Adventure, transcribed in The Listener, May 17 1951

Looking Back at a National Tonic from "Country Life" - November 11,1976

Hugh Casson remembers the South Bank site before work on the Festival began

Festival of Britain, from Architect Etcetera Exhibition Catalogue, September 18th – October 25th 1986, RIBA Heinz Gallery, London