Hello, Everyone –
In typical Chicago fashion, we have gone from a cold spring to the height of summer heat, with nary a stop in between. Just the kind of challenges to adaptability that docents thrive on.
Our move to a new home continues to be the major topic of attention for us all. John Pintozzi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, joined CAF CEO and President Lynn Osmond to debrief Docent Council on the thorough – and often frustrating – saga of finding space suitable for an Architecture Center. Over 30 possible locations were considered during the process. The funnel of possibilities is narrowing, and we look forward to an announcement within upcoming weeks.
We docents have a number of ongoing projects to engage our attentions. A committee led by Leslie Clark Lewis is putting finishing touches on a Position Statement that will nest the docents within the larger CAF community as well as identify ourselves and our work. The Long Range Planning Committee, led by Bobbi Pinkert, continues to sift through the suggestions, reactions, and observations that came to light during the Docent Council retreat. Some of the suggestions are “Quick Wins,” some are invitations to examine and perhaps refresh policies, still others show that serious contemplation and planning is needed to achieve some of our most ambitious goals. Finally, Project Fresh, a fresh take on our Core Tours, has its initial meeting at the end of this month – a committee who work has garnered major docent interest.
Meanwhile, docents were treated to a presentation by Dr Jason Nu about us – the CAF community was the centerpiece of his doctoral dissertation. Many of you will remember talking to him for the season that he was here among us taking tours, sitting in on meetings, and generally involving himself deeply in our work.
Jason laid out the following framework for his research and presentation:
- Architectural significance is not a static fact; it is an achievement that must be constantly reiterated
- Architecture tours are engines of architectural appreciation
- Wonder is the key emotional fuel that drives this engine of architectural appreciation
- Architecture tours can be likened to dramatic, theatrical performances
We could not have said it better ourselves! A copy of the dissertation is in the Docent Library, or you can read it here.
Clearly, there will be no summer doldrums around CAF. I reiterate and request that you make it a habit to browse on The Bridge at least once a week. This is our major organ to convey information, and the next few months will be teeming with news and updates that will affect us all.
Constance
Such good points. I feel happy when a visitor to the city is surprised and impressed by Chicago’s architecture. What we do is gratifying and a privilege. Thanks for the leadership and time you give to CAF, Constance! P.S. I liked your green hat.