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September 10, 2009

Vernacular Architecture and the Building Arts in Houston:
The Gulf Coast Connection
Saturday, September 12, 2009

Please join in the Gulf Coast Connection as it explores the multi-cultural traditions that have contributed to the development of Houston's built environment. This program is free and open to the public and kicks off at 10 a.m. at the Houston Central Library, 500 McKinney, with a series of talks on the topic by noted local and national folklorists, historic preservation specialists, architects and architectural historians.

Then, from noon to 4 p.m., in the courtyard of The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby, a number of skilled artisans will demonstrate building crafts, such as ornamental ironwork, specialty plastering for architectural interiors, fancy brick masonry and fine woodworking.

At 4 p.m., the AIA-Houston will host a reception for all participants and the public at the Architecture Center Houston, located at 315 Capitol, Suite 120. There will be music and food reflecting the Gulf Coast theme.

The program is sponsored in part with support from The National Endowment for the Arts, the Houston Arts Alliance through the City of Houston and Humanities Texas. Co-sponsors are the Houston Institute for Culture, the Houston Public Library, The Heritage Society, AIA-Houston, Greater Houston Preservation Alliance, Prairie View A&M School of Architecture, Rice Design Alliance and University of Houston College of Architecture.

For more information regarding this symposium or the reception, please contact the Houston Public Library at 832.393.1313 or visit www.houstonlibrary.org/vernacular-architecture or the Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs veronica.mosley@cityofhouston.net at 832.393.1053.