Chelsea Lombardo (BFA 2019) has created an architectural piñata in the shape of the James R. Thompson Center, which is under threat of destruction, reports the Chicago Tribune. Instead of being filled with candy, Lombardo's piece will be stuffed with written memories and impressions of the center, which will be broken open to display the responses. “This is more of a celebratory process than a destructive process. It’s a way to bring the building down to a tangible scale," says Lombardo.
Lombardo's pińata joins the efforts of three preservationists who are using humor to draw attention to the cause. Associate Professor Jonathan Solomon (Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects) joins architectural historian Elizabeth Blasius (BA 2005, MS 2008) and architectural writer A.J. LaTrace as part of the James R. Thompson Center Historical Society, a group that has been giving public tours that emphasize the center’s architectural merits.
"Like the center, whose future remains uncertain, pinatas are 'fragile and delicate,' said Solomon. 'And they are, quite literally, punching bags,'" reports the Tribune. The exhibition, titled What is the Thompson Center, is on view at Space p11 along the downtown Pedway through Friday, January 24.
November 22, 2020
AIADO Students Contribute to "Italian Design Day 2020"
Italian Design Day is an international initiative to bring together 100 organizations, or "Design Ambassadors," in 100 cities, all dedicated to highlighting the best of Italian design and foster cultural ties between Italy and the rest of the world. The underlying theme took inspiration from the words of the late Italian modernist artist Enzo Mari: "Humans will never cease to eat, as they will never cease to create."
April 15, 2020
SAIC Community Members Band Together to Create 3D Printed Face Shields
In the midst of growing reports of personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages, the SAIC community is doing its part to help frontline workers. Eric Fuertes, manager of the Columbus Digital Fabrication Studio, knew 3D printing could provide essential supplies during the pandemic.
December 18, 2019
Linda Keane Honored with AIA Award and Featured in Architect Magazine
Professor Linda Keane (Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects) was recently honored with the 2019 American Institute of Architects Illinois Nathan Clifford Ricker Award.
