CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Free-hand architectural sketches and mixed media work will be featured in two new exhibitions on view Jan. 26 through Feb. 24 at I space, the Chicago gallery of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign:
• "Envisioning Architecture: Drawings by Martin Wolf" offers an insider's perspective on the working style and process of the architect, the principal in charge of design at Solomon Cordwell Buenz and Associates, Chicago.
Many of today's architects and designers have shifted to computer-aided design techniques. Wolf, however, demonstrates, through the exhibition - which includes a video of him at work - why free-hand drawing is still a vital tool for many practicing architects at various stages of the design process.
The exhibition, which is accompanied by a 64-page catalog, includes 187 ink-on-vellum drawings from 12 projects undertaken by Wolf while at SCB, ranging from residential towers in Chicago, San Diego and Slovakia to the FBI field office in Maryland.
•"John Fraser: In Reserve" brings together recent as well as earlier pieces from the artist's body of work, including art not previously exhibited. Selected works combine subtle color, texture, balance and minimalist design to create a sense of power and drama. The collection includes a free-standing sculpture along with reliefs and collage/assemblages.
An opening reception is scheduled to take place from 5-7 p.m. on Jan. 26 at the gallery, 230 W. Superior St., Chicago.
I space gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.