Join the Urban Design Forum and Urban Omnibus/The Architectural League for a conversation on the role of the critic in shaping the city with Anjulie Rao and Christopher Hawthorne.

Critics play a crucial role in shaping public understanding of changes in the built environment. While traditional publications remain important, alternative platforms and new formats can reach expanded audiences to influence public opinion and policy.

In conjunction with the New City Critics fellowship, Critical Directions is a part of a series of public conversations on the future of writing about city design and development. In conversation with the New City Critics, Anjulie Rao and Christopher Hawthorne will discuss: What is the role of the critic and critical writing in shaping public conversation about the built environment?

About New City Critics

New City Critics is a fellowship program that empowers new, fearless, and diverse voices to challenge the ways we understand, design, and develop our cities. The fellowship supports the development of five critics from underrepresented backgrounds through guest lectures and workshops, research guidance, mentorship opportunities, networking, and production of new critical projects in Urban Omnibus and other leading publications. Through public programs and other channels, the fellowship encourages a more expansive conversation on the future of cities.

The Urban Design Forum promotes conversation between civic leaders, designers, developers and advocates. Forum Fellows are encouraged to invite additional guests to participate. Learn more about becoming a Forum Fellow.

The Architectural League nurtures excellence in architecture, design, and urbanism, and stimulates thinking, debate, and action on the critical design and building issues of our time. Learn more and become a member at archleague.org.

A﻿bout New City Critics

About New City Critics