Free Lecture by Nancy Kwallek: Herman Miller, Inc. and Knoll's color palettes from the 1950s

In conjunction with Mika Tajima's exhibition The Architect’s Garden at the University of Texas at Austin Visual Arts Center, Dr. Nancy Kwallek uses Herman Miller and Knoll as examples to discuss the impact of color on our senses. Through the designs of Alexander Girard and Florence Knoll, the two most significant early modern furniture manufacturers—Herman Miller, Inc. and Knoll International—set the stage for a significant change in color palettes to come for U.S. interiors.

This lecture offers the public a look into discussions between Dr. Kwallek and Mika Tajima on interior design, architecture, and modernism.

The Architect's Garden is curated by Aimee Chang, Manager of Public Programs at The Blanton Museum of Art.

More information

Call for Nominations: 2012 List of Texas’ Most Endangered Historic Places

Our friends at Preservation Texas are accepting nominations for the 2012 list of Texas’ Most Endangered Historic Places. The list plays a vital role in identifying and preserving the threatened historic resources of our state. Since 2004, Preservation Texas has called attention to 96 historic sites in 60 different Texas counties. Which site would you like to see on this year’s list?

A wide range of sites are considered, from public and residential buildings to neighborhoods, bridges, and landscapes. Nominations are open to the public and nomination forms and judging criteria may be obtained at www.preservationtexas.org or by phoning 210-472-0102. Nominations must be postmarked by October 5^th.

Preservation Texas, Inc., a statewide nonprofit organization, is the advocate for preserving the historic resources in Texas. It is the only private, nonprofit membership organization in Texas dedicated to being a full-service statewide preservation organization.

HemisFair '68 Tour: Modern Design, Cultural History

Thanks to all who helped and attended!

Walking Tour - Saturday, October 8, 2011. 2-5 pm.
If you want a typical mid-century modern tour... this isn't it.

The story of HemisFair '68 includes controversy, engineering feats, and represents a complex history of preservation and urban renewal. Meander through the landmarks, artwork, and cultural landscapes of the first official world's fair in the Southwestern U.S. Hear about the theme of HemisFair '68, confluence of the civilizations of the Americas, and how it is reflected in the artwork of Carlos Merida and Juan O'Gorman. Learn about the significance of the Women's Pavilion. Will plans breathe life into this long neglected building designed by architect Cyrus Wagner? Hear about the origins of the Federal Courthouse and Institute of Texan Cultures. See significant cultural landscapes, such as the Acequia Madre De Valero, unearthed in preparation for HemisFair '68.

Admission includes walking tour of modern architecture and artwork in downtown San Antonio and a trip to the top of the Tower of the Americas.

$5 Mid Tex Mod members/students/children
$10 All others

RSVP to Jenni Minner (midtexasmod@gmail.com) by Monday, October 3, 2011. Let us know the number in your party. Payment by cash or check by day of tour.

Special thanks to: Martin Smith Construction Co., Women's Pavilion at HemisFair Park, Inc., Public Art San Antonio, National Trust for Historic Preservation Partners in the Field, San Antonio Conservation Society, and many others who have helped!

(Note: Image above from HemisFair 1968 Official Souvenir Guidebook.)

Docomomo US Tour Day