VCA to Host Michael Graves Exhibition, Event

Michael Graves, FAIA. Courtesy of Michael Graves & Associates.  Photography by Barry Johnson.
Michael Graves, FAIA. Courtesy of Michael Graves & Associates. Photography by Barry Johnson.

Michael Graves, FAIA, has been credited with broadening the role of the architect in America. He and his two firms promote good design for all, at scales that range from towers to teakettles and in disciplines that range from master planning, architecture and interior design to product design and graphics. A new exhibition at the Virginia Center for Architecture tells the story of the breadth of Graves’ work, including architecture, furniture and consumer products, along with Graves’ own artwork.  The exhibition, From Towers to Teakettles: Michael Graves Architecture and Design, will be on view at the Virginia Center for Architecture from Jan. 17–March 31, 2013.

Among the featured  projects is Resorts World Sentosa, a recently completed 3.5 million-square-foot resort in Singapore designed top to bottom by the Graves firms, including Hotel Michael, named for the architect himself.  Other projects include the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, Virginia, St. Coletta School of Greater Washington, and the U.S. Courthouse in Washington, D.C. Furniture and products will be represented by iconic pieces from the 1980s as well as current work.

The Center will host an Opening Reception featuring remarks by Karen Nichols, FAIA, Principal at Michael Graves & Associates on Thursday, Jan. 17 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. There is no charge to attend, but spaces are very limited. For reservations, call (804) 644-3041, ext. 100 or secure your space online.

On the evening of Thursday, Feb. 7, the Center will present a Curated Conversation with Michael Graves, FAIA. Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, the Center’s executive director, will host a discussion, diving into a range of design topics with the celebrated architect. To accommodate a large crowd, the Conversation will be held in the chapel at First Baptist Church at 2709 Monument Avenue, just blocks from the Center. This event is free, but spaces are limited and reservations are recommended.

Following the discussion, the Center will host a Dinner with Michael Graves.  Enjoy a lively cocktail hour, with passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by an intimate, seated dinner and dessert in the Center’s dazzling galleries. Hear remarks by Michael and engage in warm conversation with members of Virginia’s design community. Tickets are $100 and proceeds benefit the VCA. Spaces are very limited and reservations are required. Call (804) 237-1764 or purchase tickets online.