'Contemporary Architecture, Part 2: Thomas Heatherwick' Webinar

Skyscrapers that ripple like waves. Museums that seem to hover in space. Public spaces so bold they redefine entire skylines. What happens when architecture breaks the mold and becomes a global force of creativity, identity, and innovation? It’s time to journey through the revolutionary world of contemporary architecture and uncover six visionary minds transforming our cities, one landmark at a time.

Join New York Adventure Club for a six-part series exploring modern and contemporary architecture through the pioneering work of some of today’s most groundbreaking international architects and their firms. In Part Two: Thomas Heatherwick, we’ll examine the work of the inventive British designer redefining how we interact with public space — where architecture, sculpture, and storytelling come together in entirely new forms.

Led by Sylvia Laudien-Meo — art historian, museum educator, and NYC tour guide — this art-centric virtual journey will feature:

• An introduction to Heatherwick’s early career, and how he came to bridge the worlds of architecture, design, and urban innovation
• A deep dive into NYC’s Vessel and Little Island, two of the city’s boldest and most debated additions in recent years
• Discussion around Heatherwick’s philosophy, centered on tactile, human-centered design that inspires connection and curiosity
• An exploration of major international projects, from London to Shanghai, that challenge the definition of what architecture can be
• Insight into how Heatherwick’s studio rethinks city life, turning overlooked infrastructure into surprising, interactive experiences

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Sylvia — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay through one week after the entire series concludes.

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week after the series finale

****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week since the series finale, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

Contemporary Architecture Series

Part 1: Frank Gehry (Thursday, October 16 @ 5:30pm ET)

Part 2: Thomas Heatherwick (Thursday, October 23 @ 5:30pm ET)

Part 3: Zaha Hadid (Thursday, October 30 @ 5:30pm ET)

Part 4: Santiago Calatrava (Thursday, November 6 @ 5:30pm ET)

Part 5: Herzog & De Meuron (Thursday, November 13 @ 5:30pm ET)

Part 6: Sir Norman Foster (Thursday, November 20 @ 5:30pm ET)

About Sylvia

Sylvia Laudien-Meo is a freelance Art Historian who works in and around the city in various capacities, specializing on Modern and Contemporary art, with a strong focus on Public Art. She teaches art history at Fairleigh Dickinson University and has been working as a museum educator at MoMA, the Guggenheim and the Jewish Museum for over many years, engaging visitors in conversation based, interactive art experiences of permanent collections and changing exhibitions.

For the Municipal Art Society, UFT, Brandeis Univ., and private clients, she has been touring the city for over 20 years, exploring art and architecture, parks, neighborhoods and history. Working in various different capacities gives her a unique opportunity to make intriguing connections and weave together the complex perspectives that make out the tapestry of our fascinating city.

SLM holds a Masters Degree in Art History (with minors in History and American Studies) from the Joh. Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany, as well as a Tourism degree from the EST in Paris France.

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Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment