At left, Architect Alfred Giles at the turn of the 20th century. At right, Giles with his family.
Historic photos and architectural plans displayed at ITC
(Feb. 25, 2002)--The Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) invites you to see a unique architectural mark left on the urban fabric of cities in Texas and Mexico in "Alfred Giles, Architect, and His International Practice," an exhibit of historic photographs and architectural drawings. Sponsored by the UTSA School of Architecture and Interior Design, the artifacts will be on display in the ITC Lower Gallery March 5-Apr. 28.
The exhibit presents the story of English-born architect Alfred Giles who designed many impressive buildings in the cities of Texas and Mexico at the turn of the 20th century. Many of his contributions to society have been brought to life by means of historic and recent photographs, the few surviving original plans and presentation drawings, a scale model and other documentation such as measured drawings.
The exhibition concentrates on four locations with the greatest influence
of Giles-designed buildings. These buildings still remain in San Antonio,
Comfort, Chihuahua and Monterrey. The exhibit is divided into four thematic
sections: "Heroic Rescues," focusing on the Dan Sullivan stable
and coach house; "Lost Giles," photos of buildings that are candidates
for rehabilitation and adaptive reuse, such as the Mother House of Sisters
of Charity of Incarnate Word; and the architect's "Loyal Clients,"
the Maverick, Steves, Frost, Vance Groos and Terrel families. There is also
an historical section outlining the life of Alfred Giles in San Antonio and
the Hill Country, where he attempted to re-create an environment similar to
the one in which he was born in England.
The Institute of Texan Cultures, one of the three campuses of the University
of Texas at San Antonio, is an educational center concerned with the history
and diverse cultures of Texas. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
ITC is located in downtown San Antonio. Admission is free with a UTSA I.D.,
$5 for adults, $2 for children (3-12), $3 for seniors (65+) and military (with
I.D.), and free for children 2 and under. For more information call (210)
458-2300 or visit the Institute
of Texan Cultures Web site.
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TODAY'S HEADLINES:
Brackenridge
lecture series features California poet
Historic photos and architectural plans displayed at ITC
UTSA
observes Women's History Week March 4-8
UTSA
announces creation of Honors College
Tri-Campus
Bulletin Board: a digest of important happenings
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© The University of Texas at San Antonio, 2001