Fall 2009

The Search for Symbolism in Religious Architecture
By Richard S. Vosko, Ph.D., Hon. AIA

Every work of architecture is symbolic. Whether it is a bank, state capitol, school, home or mosque, every building serves more than a utilitarian function. Built environments are references to something beyond themselves. They are reflections of the culture they serve. In fact, over time they help to shape that culture. Consider the role of hospitals in the culture of health care or universities in the culture of higher education.

A New Symbolism of the Organic
By Brian F. Russell

Like the electric guitars that have augmented the organ in many worship services, so, too, is a new energy being tapped in religious architecture. New materials and technologies are transforming traditional icons, and changing attitudes regarding our relationship to the natural world are reflected in decidedly organic, handmade objects. As a society, ever since Roosevelt and Muir worked together to establish the National Park system, we have been slowly developing the understanding of our place in the interconnected natural order, as part of the world, not separate from it. It is that changing concept that is slowly creeping into modern theology, both via the congregants and theologians, and from the designers and architects who build the sacred spaces. This hybridization of the traditional and contemporary is producing a dynamic, tactile new sensibility for worshipful places.

Form Follows Values
By Maurice N. Finegold, FAIA

Throughout my professional life, now close to 50 years, I have had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects, each of which tells its own story of time, place, mission and values. As I think about this particular topic, “The Search for a New Symbolism in Religious Art and Architecture”, I am reminded of how the story changes over time and how that impacts design in both art and architecture. Driven by many forces, our worship spaces represent the increasingly less dogmatic, more pluralistic attitudes of their congregations. It is less about ritual and the word and more about making meaningful connections for and with their more diverse constituencies. As attitudes have changed, as congregants want more of a voice in shaping their religious homes, congregations search for ways to maintain or grow their membership.

Changing Times l Time for Change: Practice, Productivity, and Effectiveness
September 24–26, 2009, Chicago
17.5 LUs
Explore the major challenges and opportunities that are reshaping architecture practice in a world that is changing at a breathtaking rate including BIM, sustainability, and interoperability. View the networking site at http://changingtimes.ning.com. Can’t Attend? Join us for these sessions which will be offered virtually.

Beyond the Horizon: The Next Generation of Justice
October 7–10, 2009, Chicago
15 LUs
Architects, judges, court executives, government leaders, builders, sheriffs, and police chiefs will explore the emerging trends in justice-facility planning and design. View the networking site at http://aiaaaj.ning.com.

Designing Learning Environments to Rebuild Urban America
October 23–25, 2009, New York City
12 LUs
Design professionals and educators will discover common ground and emerge with strategies to create learning environments that are both practical and inspiring. View the networking site at http://aiacae.ning.com.

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