Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will honor the legacy of pioneering architect Louis Sullivan on the centennial anniversary of his passing with a two-day event. On Thursday, April 11 from 5-7 p.m. at the Noise Box Gallery in Art & Design East, The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the Lovejoy Library will host an opening reception to kick off festivities. Friday, April 12, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., CAS and Lovejoy will hold a full day of presentations and exhibitions celebrating the contributions of architect Louis Sullivan, beginning in the Sullivan Lounge of the Lovejoy Library.

SIUE houses the world's largest known collection of Sullivan's ornamental artwork and salvaged architectural pieces on display for public view. Sullivan designed the first modern skyscraper, the Wainwright Building, built in St. Louis in 1890. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1968. Sullivan is credited with adopting the iconic tenet of "Form Follows Function" and he served as mentor to famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. SIUE's Noise Box Gallery will feature students' artwork inspired by Sullivan, and the Lovejoy Library will host an array of presentations from SIUE art history professors and scholars, including local designer and Sullivan expert John Celuch.

Therese Dickman, fine arts librarian at SIUE, said one of the goals of the centennial is to acknowledge Sullivan had as an artist and architect. She described the acquisition of the Sullivan collection as an example of exceptional foresight.

"SIUE was a young, fledgling University with a vision for the future," Dickman said. "In those early years we were seeking out art. We acquired the collection when nobody wanted it in the 60's."

The celebration will also encompass the impact Sullivan still has on students.

"This event will also showcase SIUE student artwork ranging from perspective drawings to ceramic tile pieces that have been inspired by the designs and architecture of Louis Sullivan," said John DenHouter, SIUE professor of art in drawing and painting.

The centennial will feature lectures, walking tours, Sullivan exhibitions, video media and accessible accommodations. Parking is available in Lot B. Please view this brochure for a detailed list of activities, presentations and exhibits. More information about this historic event can be found on the SIUE Art & Design webpage.

PHOTO: Ornamental Artifact of Louis Sullivan