Michael Rotondi thanks the lecture committee and introduces Samuel Mockbee of Rural Studio. He praises Mockbee’s success within the field of teaching. He commends his aesthetic, precision, and generosity of spirit within the field of architecture.
Samuel Mockbee addresses what it means to be an architect and the values of the profession. He proposes that architects have three responsibilities; to maintain ethical and moral principles, to observe carefully the world around them, and to keep a sense of poetry and wonder.
Mockbee discusses the early work of Rural Studio and presents examples from the Mississippi Pavilion, the Barton House and the Cook House. He emphasizes the influence of his Southern culture and his efforts to help impoverished people in his home state.
Mockbee discusses his work and his transition into teaching. He emphasizes the influence of his Southern culture and his efforts to help impoverished people in his home state. He presents examples from various projects such as the Barton House.
Mockbee discusses his most current work and his maturation as an architect. He talks of his Graham Foundation grant to create a series of large painting which were made in the hope of addressing the needs of Lizzie Baldwin’s family. He explains how we as architects have an obligation to feel compassion.
Mockbee summarizes his lecture by silently showing some black and white photos and discusses his students’ work. He discusses the donated, found, and recycled materials and unique construction techniques which the students used on the construction of a chapel.
