Spend an Evening with Landscape Architect Martha Schwartz - May 9th, 6:00pm
Speaking on: "The Softer Side of Sustainability"
There are now expanded notions of what it takes to create healthy communities and cities which are NOT rooted in technology, but in the physical, psychological and emotional operations of our own human behaviour.
These "non-technical" systems, or “soft-systems,” play out in our constructed landscapes and open spaces. The monetary value of urban open spaces cannot be directly measured; however, human value can be achieved through their function, as well as the specific visual qualities. Only if ecological, social and cultural forces are translated into culturally relevant language, will these spaces be nurtured and achieve a long-term and more positive urban life for all.
Space is limited - Reserve your seat now!
Schwartz is a landscape architect and tenured Professor in Practice of Landscape Architecture at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. Her practice focuses primarily on cities and the urban landscape and the work spans from site-specific art installations to working with cities at strategic planning levels. Schwartz is an advocate for how cities can help to reduce climate change and support a more sustainable approach to diminishing resources. She continues her devotion to the built environment through pushing new boundaries and expressions as a designer. She understands design as a method through which to create social buy-in and the creation of value for public spaces.
As principal of Martha Schwartz Partners in London and just recently, New York, she has over 30 years of experience as a landscape architect and artist on a wide variety of projects located around the world with a variety of world-renowned architects.
She is the recipient of numerous awards and prizes including the Cooper Hewitt National Design Award; the Women in Design Award for Excellence from the Boston Society of Architects; an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science from the University of Ulster in Belfast, Ireland; a fellowship from the Urban Design Institute; Honorary Royal Designer for Industry Award from the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce for her outstanding contribution to UK design; visiting residencies at Radcliffe College and the American Academy in Rome; an Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Institute of British Architects and most recently the Council of Fellows Award by the American Society of Landscape Architects.
Light snacks and refreshments will be served. Wine and beer will be available for purchase. RSVP today!