The Art and Science of Ornament

by Matthew McNicholas, AIA 

Ornament -- that which beautifies and adds grace to our buildings -- plays a more important role in our everyday experience and well-being than previously understood. Join Matthew McNicholas, AIA, for two hands-on classes to explore the science-based case for the use of ornament in architecture.  

Prior to the workshops, please join us for a free lecture on February 12th, 6:30 pm in RM CS404 at UVU

Class 1 - Introduction to the Principles of Ornament (SOLD OUT)

Date: Thursday, February 13th

Time: 2:30pm – 6:30pm

Location: Room CS 713A, Computer Science Building, Utah Valley University - Orem, UT

Cost: UVU Students - Free // Other Students - $5 // ICAA Members - $20 // Non-Members - $30

Class Description:  Architectural ornament can profoundly impact us on conscious and unconscious levels, yet the principles of design and composition for ornament are not well known today.  What makes some architectural ornament lyrical and beautiful and others dull and uninspiring?  What gives it life?  Matthew McNicholas, AIA, will take students through a series of design exercises to learn the fundamental principles that govern successful architectural ornament.  Bring pencils and sketchbooks for this hands-on workshop by one of the most sought-after consultants in architectural ornament today.

Class 2 - Ornament, Beyond the Basics

Date: Friday, February 14th

Time: 9am-4pm

Location: FFKR Architects, 730 Pacific Ave, Salt Lake City, UT

Cost: Students - $10 // ICAA Members - $35 // Non-Members - $55

Class Description:  Building on his introductory workshop, Matt McNicholas, AIA, will share professional practices and techniques to translate natural forms into stylized ornament in metal, stone, plaster or other materials.  As the 19th-century architect Owen Jones famously wrote: “In the best periods of art, all ornament was based upon an observation of the principles which regulate the arrangement of form in nature.”  Join us to learn how to apply these principles to ornament using motifs drawn from geometrical shapes and patterns, plants, and human and animal figures.

Learning Objectives:
-Understand how ornament can impact us on a conscious and subconscious level
-Integrate ornament into different building materials
-Use principles from nature and precedent in designing architectural ornament
-Use ornament appropriately to maximize its impact on health and well-being

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to call or email Alyssa Felix at (385) 223-7313, alyssa.felix@classicistutah.org

 

 

 

Register Now!