Our 20th Anniversary event
We are excited to share with you the incredible highlights and unforgettable moments from our 20th Anniversary event. Thank you for being a part of this journey and for joining us in our celebrations!
With Maruyama Kinya: A Special Exhibition at Cow Canyon Coffee
The event kicked off with a sketch exhibition by Kinya Maruyama, drawing many local residents and friends. Everyone was amazed by the vast collections of sketches and projects displayed. The handcrafted pizza by the Cow Canyon Coffee team was a huge hit, making for an excellent start to the event.
Shuho Sakurai’s Flute Making Workshop at Turquoise Space (Bluff Community Foundation)
During the hands-on flute-making workshop, participants of all ages dove into the simple yet surprising task of making a musical instrument by simply punching holes in familiar materials. The sounds of music filled the air as participants tried out new instruments.
Large Turnout at Joe Pachak’s Studio Tour
Joe Pachak has reopened his studio and welcomed friends into his revived space. The array of his cherished artworks on display allowed us to connect deeply with the origins of his creativity. We are confident that this studio will further facilitate his creative endeavors more than ever before, and that his art will continue to have a significant impact on the surrounding community.
Naoki Kusumi’s Plaster Demonstrations
Even with an impromptu request and limited materials available, Naoki presented a remarkable plaster show. His exceptional skills and aesthetic sensibility transformed ordinary materials and spaces into art and provided us true live entertainment. During the event, Naoki continued to share the joy of plastering with everyone.
Saido Higuchi’s lecture about his landscape work
Saido gave a fascinating presentation of the landscape designer’s work, covering everything from his past projects to practical workshops. His insightful lecture made us think about the role architects can play on construction sites, along with carpenters, plasterers, and gardeners, and the importance and joy of practical experience.
Jun Higuchi’s Sushi Making Workshop
Our Sushi Making Workshop was a hit! Led by our chef “Jun”, participants learned how to roll very special decorated sushi. The hands-on experience provided a tasty insight into Japanese culture and culinary arts, leaving everyone with new skills and satisfied appetites.
Alumni discussion night
“Who was the teacher that most influenced you?” Under this question, we exchanged fascinating conversations between diverse ages, nationalities, and skills, who had all convened for the occasion. It was an evening filled with deep discussions on how to keep creating while discarding, and how to maintain originality while being influenced.
Performance night at Twin Rock Cafe
The final weekend of the event was highlighted by an impromptu flute workshop led by Shuho, the Diné song by Zuki & Kony, and wonderful music from Jim Sayer’s band. A huge shout-out to Twin Rock Cafe for their incredible support and hospitality throughout our events
Exhibition “20 years of DeignBuild in Utah” at AIA Utha Gallery
Following the panel discussion held at the University of Utah’s campus, the month-long 20th-anniversary exhibition at AIA Utah has successfully concluded. The opening saw the attendance of Hank, the program’s founder, alongside former staff, students, and familiar faces from our past. Having the opportunity to collectively look back on past projects laid out before us served as a wonderful catalyst for reflection on our journey so far. Our sincerest thanks go to the School of Architecture (SoA) for their collaboration and support in organizing this event.
Special Thanks
renowned photographer Paul Martin
Bluff neighbors, Joe, Bluff Community Foundation, Frances and the Twin Rocks team, Liza and Cow Canyon Coffee team, Tina & Ned, Sandy, Tim & Eirene, Ann & Stewart, Carol, Linda, Erin & Jacob, Jim Sayer’s band, Marx, Jared & Dallin, Blanding Transition team, Bluff girls scout, Jennifer, Kent, Ellen, and Paul.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, contributed, and celebrated with us. Here’s to continuing to build better architects and stronger communities together!
Bluff neighbors, Joe, Bluff Community Foundation, Frances and the Twin Rocks team, Liza and Cow Canyon Coffee team, Tina & Ned, Sandy, Tim & Eirene, Ann & Stewart, Carol, Linda, Erin & Jacob, Jim Sayer’s band, Marx, Jared & Dallin, Blanding Transition team, Bluff girls scout, Jennifer, Kent, Ellen, and Paul.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, contributed, and celebrated with us. Here’s to continuing to build better architects and stronger communities together!