Michael Scott [ Archiseek Bio ] was arguably Ireland's greatest 20th Century architect. It would be difficult to assess Ireland's 20th Century cultural heritage without highlighting Scott's contribution and vision. He was an exceptionally creative man in a country that he described as 'visually illiterate'.

He was a man who loved Ireland and the arts, especially the visual arts. This film, directed by his only daughter, Ciarin Scott, explores his controversial life and how his drive and vision brought contemporary visual arts to Ireland, on a whole new level.

Scott's legacy to our streetscapes - in particular, the design for Busaras - continues to divide citizens and critics. Similarly, longstanding debate over the Abbey Theatre building has leaned toward increased condemnation of Scott's design.

Supporters argue that the budget and available space defeated him. But the question is raised as to whether, in some cases, Scott's stature and reputation actually exceeded the quality of his major work. The documentary follows the thread of Scott's life and work as it interweaves with Ireland's cultural history, from independence to his death in 1989, just at the beginning of the country's renaissance.

Also included is 16mm footage Scott took himself, dating from the 1930s onwards, in addition to many family photographs. The film will trace his life - from the tragedy of his mother's death when a teenager, to his loving though complex relationship with his wife and family, to his battles with the church, his success with the Irish Pavilion of 1939 and his house in Sandycove, Geragh, in the late 1930s. The film also documents his struggles and the controversies caused by trying to bring modernity to Ireland through the 40s to the 1960s, with projects such as Busaras, the Abbey Theatre and the ROSC exhibitions.

Scott was a colourful renaissance figure who took risks, a creative radical whose ideology was the integration of art and architecture. On a personal level he was charismatic, handsome, and a reputedly charming bon viveur. His interests and talents included theatre, dance, music, literature and cinema.

Arts Lives - Michael Scott: A Changing Man is an Atlantic Film Alliance production for RTÉ Television. The producer was Mary Finnegan. The director was Ciarin Scott. Transmission Date: RTE 1, Tuesday 14 February 2006 22.15 Week : 7 (11 Feb 06-17 Feb 06)