Lulu Series: Vance Harris

Vance Harris
Public Art: A Catalyst for the Transformation of Architectural Process

Thursday, May 9, 2019
7:00pm | Richmond City Hall
Seating is limited

Often when designers are working on a new project, public art is denoted as an empty circle on the architectural diagrams. Yet on some rare and fortunate occasions, a work of public art can completely transform and radically redefine a project in ways that its architects had not originally envisioned. This talk will explore the transformational power of public art and highlight a number of DIALOG’s projects where art has acted as a catalyst for shaping the architectural process and reveal how public art has the capability to positively impact an overall design scheme and serve the communities in which the projects are situated.

DIALOG is a multi-disciplinary design firm with studios in Calgary, San Francisco, Vancouver, Edmonton and Toronto. The firm’s work includes designing for urban vibrancy, health and wellness, transportation, education, arts and culture, residential, retail, and commercial, as well as mixed-use solutions. DIALOG is passionate about design and believes that the way in which we design spaces can, and should, meaningfully improve the well-being of our communities and environments. 

Architect, VANCE HARRIS has led a range of diverse, multidisciplinary teams at DIALOG, including three Canada Line stations along the South Cambie corridor. He oversaw the coordination of two major public art installations for the Richmond Olympic Oval and is currently leading DIALOG’s team on Westbank’s new Vancouver House project. In his spare time, he volunteers as a mentor within the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s Syllabus program. dialogdesign.ca

This talk will be preceded by a short performance by flamenco dancer, singer and choreographer, MARIA AVILA. Maria studied Flamenco in Madrid and Sevilla and is currently working on her MFA in Dance at York University. mariaavilaflamenco.com.