On February 17, 2022, VANOMA hosted Burt Pinnock, FAIA, NOMA of Baskervill, who shared with us a variety of his work and its relationship to the Black experience, including the William & Mary Memorial to the Enslaved. At the end of his presentation — Seeing and Being Seen — Burt posed the question, "What is Black Architecture?" Take a listen to this phenomenal and thought-provoking conversation below.
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The way that we respond to architecture has been influenced by a Eurocentric standpoint for the most part. What is the architecture that moves us forward from that? Something that is responsive to a different cultural need. I think the definition [of Black architecture] not only looks back, but also looks forward. If we look at our current culture and what it needs, we can then begin to ask what is our architectural response to that? I think that in and of itself becomes the definition of an Architecture designed for and by a people of color. I don't know what it is exactly, but I know that it is needed. BURT PINNNOCK, FAIA, NOMA
Celebrating Burt Pinnock
Burt Pinnock’s passion for design has created award-winning work for countless communities, from historic sites and cultural institutions to forward-thinking companies and inspiring foundations. With a firm grasp on contextual design, Burt’s work is rooted in the belief that architecture can provide solutions and change to cultural challenges. His approachable attitude and friendly smile have opened many doors as both a speaker and design leader. Beyond being a Principal at Baskervill, he is the Chairman of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Art and Architectural Review Board and is the cofounder of Storefront for Community Design, among many other volunteer engagements. For Burt, architecture and design isn’t a job; it’s his personal contribution to the wellbeing and vitality of our communities.
Keep up with Burt and his work by visiting burtpinnock.com
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