Architecture: Making it all Matter with special guest presenter: John Leroux
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Presented by TMAC National PD Committee
As we look back into history, whether ancient or recent, it is usually the architectural legacy that creates our first impression of the times. Architecture is a cultural yardstick of human existence, and when realized with integrity and devotion, it can represent the highest form of enlightenment and spiritual triumph. Architecture is also one of the keystones of the visual identity and soul of a particular place – so it’s often central to travel and tourism destinations. Consequently, to truly understand a place, it is necessary to look closely at its chronicle of buildings. They document the dreams and aspirations of a particular place, and sometimes its discernable failings, in three dimensions. They tell us who we were, who we are and who we might become.
This presentation will look at how we can better understand the built environment; from a single building to an entire cityscape. It will go quickly over some stylistic typologies and terms, but will be more concerned about how best to see what resonates with visitors and citizens when exploring architecture. How it can reveal stories and inspire.
Three Key Takeaways:
- How to better understand the built environment; from a single building to an entire cityscape
- A basic understanding of stylistic typologies and terms
- Expressing architecture in stories in a way that resonates with and inspires visitors
Taking a global approach, this session will also touch on unique aspects of Nova Scotian architecture in anticipation of the 2022 TMAC National Conference in Yarmouth.
RESOURCES/REFERENCE DOCUMENTS:
Our presenter, John, offered and we humbly accepted on your behalf, a collection of reference and resource documents that will be useful in your writing. Access this collection here, downloadable/viewable via Google Docs.
About our presenter:
John Leroux has practiced in the fields of art history, architecture, visual art, curation, and education, and is currently the Manager of Collections and Exhibitions at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in his hometown of Fredericton. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from McGill University, a Master of Arts in Art History from Concordia University, and a PhD in History from the University of New Brunswick. He has worked at several award-winning architecture firms in Toronto, Atlanta and Fredericton, and has taught at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, the University of New Brunswick, and St. Thomas University. He has won many awards for architectural and public art projects throughout Canada, and he was a team member of Canada’s entry at the 2012 Venice Biennale in Architecture. A passionate advocate for the arts and for architectural conservancy, John has authored 16 books on architecture and visual culture, including A Vision in Wood and Stone: The Architecture of Mount Allison University and Building New Brunswick: An Architectural History. He has been an architectural tour guide for over 30 years.