ArchitectureView
by Barrett Lipomi
Design impacts nearly every aspect of our lives. So naturally investing in good design enhances our lives and improves our community. When buildings, parks, roadways, and signs are well designed they add to our lives and become something worth encouraging and celebrating. The Modesto Architecture Festival does just that, it’s a celebration of the joys of good design, the benefits it brings to our city, and the often hidden members of our community that make it happen. The festival has grown from a single night of architecture movies in 2008 when about 250 people attended to an 8-day festival that has had as many as 5,000 visitors and 135 events.
This year marks the milestone Tenth Annual Modesto Architecture Festival and there is something fun, inspirational, and informative for everyone of every interest and age: tours, exhibits, movies, kid’s activities, and special events. All official events and activities are free; events hosted by partner organizations may have an admission charge.
The festival, hosted by the Sierra Valley Chapter of the AIA and the Modesto Art Museum, opens on Sunday, September 17, with exhibits, tours, and a screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window at the State Theatre. Randy Siefkin will introduce the architectural features of the movie. Activities, more than 80 of them, will continue through the week including a guided tour of downtown architecture; and an evening of architecture and design movies at the art deco State Theatre on Saturday, September 23, 6:30 pm for the reception, program at 7:30. Self-guided walking and driving tour guides of Modesto’s architecture are available online for download.
Have you ever wondered about the history of your home or neighborhood? This year you can attend our house history workshop that will take place on Monday evening, September 18. This workshop will provide insight and tools on how to uncover the unique history of your home.
The popular Family Architecture Experience/Kid’s Workshop will be at the main branch of the Stanislaus County Library, 1500 I Street, on Saturday, September 23, from 9:30 am to 2 pm. Fun and exciting crafts, games, and activities for children of all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
This year, the festival will expand its usual focus on architecture, urban design, and landscape and will include the entire spectrum of design. The recently organized Modesto Design Collective is a new partner in the festival and will co-host the Architecture & Design Film Night at the State Theatre on the evening of Saturday, September 23. Don’t miss it.
In 2015, the American Institute of Architects presented the Sierra Valley Chapter its National Excellence Award for the Modesto festival, calling it “not just educational but also exciting, inspirational, and a whole lot of fun”.
Come out and enjoy the fun this month as we explore the amazing architecture and design in our community and around the world. Information about the Modesto Architecture Festival can be found at: modestoarchfest.com
