Architect Moshe Safdie to Speak on October 16

Date: September 12, 2008

Author: Kauffman Center

Architect Moshe Safdie will speak on Thursday, October 16 at the Central Library in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.  Join us to hear Safdie’s vision for the design of the Kauffman Center.  He will also discuss the role of public buildings in engaging the community and the status of Kansas City’s largest construction project—one that is changing the downtown skyline.

During the architect selection process for the Kauffman Center, Board Chairman Julia Irene Kauffman made it clear to all candidates that her goal was “to connect artists with audiences.”  She meant this on a number of levels and, when project planners got to know the work of Moshe Safdie, they learned that his portfolio of work was completely in sync with their intentions.

“Safdie believes that public buildings, particularly those supporting the arts, must invite people inside.  He thinks that the design should ‘share the ritual’ of the arts in an overt way,” says Jane Chu, CEO of the Kauffman Center.  “For example, Safdie sees the huge glass lobby of the Kauffman Center as a ‘beacon to the arts.”

On October 16, at 6:30 p.m. Moshe Safdie will talk about this and other aspects of his vision for the Kauffman Center at a public presentation at the Central branch of the Kansas City Missouri Public Library (see details below).  He will also discuss how public buildings like the Kauffman Center enhance downtown redevelopment and play a pivotal role in community building.

This presentation is free and open to the public, but advance reservations are requested so that adequate seating is available. 

Details
Central Library, Helzberg Auditorium, 14 West 10th Street, KCMO
Call 816.701.3407 to indicate your interest in attending.

6 p.m.  Reception
6:30   Presentation by Moshe Safdie

Free parking is available in the Library District Parking Garage on the northwest corner of 10th and Baltimore Street.  Bring in your ticket for validation.