Lawrence Scarpa: The Power of Beauty: Why it Matters | Architecture Lecture
Free and open to the public
Why do we remember buildings, locations and experiences? Even a place visited in our childhood can conjure emotions that make an impact on us through the memories they create. In this presentation, Lawrence Scarpa, FAIA, explains the creative process that aspires to make a lasting impression out of even a brief encounter.
“Beauty is deeply intertwined with human values, social structures, and individual well-being, impacting almost every aspect of life from art and architecture to daily routines and social norms. Beauty is the promise of happiness, one of our fundamental human needs. Buildings that we admire are ultimately those which, in a variety of ways, extol the values we think worthwhile. Whether through material innovation, form, colors or service to society, qualities such as friendliness, kindness, subtlety, strength and intelligence are part of what we believe are beautiful. Our sense of beauty and our understanding of the nature of what is good are intertwined and inseparable.”
About the Speaker
Lawrence Scarpa, FAIA, is the JW&VL Visiting Professor of Practice in the Department of Architecture. His exploratory and ever-innovative work has elevated design and practice, and created architectural and legislative solutions for the most pressing societal challenges. He is the recipient of the 2024 AIA California Distinguished Practice Award given in recognition of a career of dedicated commitment to the built environment. Scarpa is also the recipient of the 2024 ACSA Gold Medal and the 2024 American Institute of Architects Gold medal, the institute’s highest award. He is principal of Brooks + Scarpa, a collective of architects, designers and creative thinkers dedicated to enhancing the human experience. He is currently on the faculty at the University of Southern California.
ACCESSIBILITY
The auditorium is wheelchair accessible. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact Boban Zarkovich at least 10 days prior to the event.