CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Architecture - both historic and futuristic - will be featured in three new exhibitions opening this month at I space, the Chicago gallery of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
The exhibitions, on view March 14 through April 5:
"Walter Burley Griffin: Architectural Models of Projects and Demolished Buildings," featuring nine basswood models of Griffin buildings by students of Paul Kruty, a professor of architecture at Illinois and the author of the book "Walter Burley Griffin in America." Information about the Prairie School architect and his work - much of which can still be found in the Chicago area - accompanies the student designs.
"Sullivanesque: Urban Architecture and Ornamentation," a collection of decorative ornaments, terra cotta fragments, drawings, photographs and prints that provide a historical overview of modern American architecture derived from the style originated by Louis Sullivan. The exhibition is organized by Ronald Schmitt, the author of the book "Sullivanesque: Urban Architecture and Ornamentation."
"Interactive Architecture: Habitable Software/Wearable Architecture," a multimedia installation presenting highlights of a thesis project by Illinois alumnus Jereme Smith. The main components of the project are a "techpack," a foldable, solar-charged laptop computer worn by the user, and a bus shelter, which Smith said was designed for "maximum public effectiveness."
An opening reception is scheduled to take place from 5-7 p.m. March 21 at the gallery, 230 W. Superior St., Chicago.
I space gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.