For over 20 years the Scottish architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh worked almost exclusively in Glasgow where all his best-known work was created and where much of it remains today. It was only in later life that Mackintosh left Glasgow in search of greater success, ending his career in London where he died in relative obscurity at the age of 60.

It is perhaps ironic therefore that Mackintosh was given so little recognition by his native city during his lifetime. This was to change and by the end of the 20th century, some 70 years after his death, he was finally lauded as the father of "Glasgow Style".

A MODERN MAN takes a critical look at Mackintosh's life and artistic career and the importance of the friends and patrons who provided him with regular work when it matter most.

Influential critics, including the designer Terence Conran, give their views on Mackintosh's current reputation. All are unanimous in their appreciation of "the complete designer". Together, they recognise his importance as an influential architect of the 20th century and acknowledge that Charles Rennie Mackintosh was very much A MODERN MAN.