March 16, 2011 05:00 PM
Taubman College Liberty Annex
305 W. Liberty St.
Downtown Ann Arbor


Modernism at Risk / Michigan Matters, an exhibition organized by University of Michigan Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning and the World Monuments Fund (WMF) will be on display from March 16 – April 20, 2011, at 305 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Modernism at Risk initiative is a program created by the WMF with founding sponsor Knoll in 2006 to address the distinct threats facing great works of modern architecture around the world. This program focuses on advocacy, conservation, and public education. Michigan Matters is the Taubman College response to the WMF initiative by bringing to light the modern architectural resources distinct to Michigan and Ann Arbor. The WMF exhibit consists of large-scale photographs by Andrew Moore, and interpretative panels with five case studies that explore the role designers play in preserving modern landmarks. The five buildings highlighted include the Grosse Pointe Public Library in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan – saved from demolition by local residents with partial funding for its renovation from the WMF.

The Michigan Matters exhibit materials include reproductions of drawings from the Albert Kahn, Mies van der Rohe, Minoru Yamasaki, and Saarinen Collections. In addition, photographic documentation depicting various modern buildings at varying time periods will be displayed. Cooperation from the Balthazar Korab Studio, Cranbrook Archives, Museum of Modern Art NYC, State Archives, and the Bentley Historical Library have made it possible to exhibit significant works of Michigan modern architecture. Exhibit Opening Reception March 16, 5-7 p.m., 305 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor.