Special Topics for Spring: Preserving the Recent Past January 30, 2009
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HIPR 499/780 Special Topics, Preserving the Recent Past-FAQ
What is the recent past?
The recent past is a term generally used to describe historical and architectural resources younger than fifty years old. Did you know that it is estimated that up to 70% of our built environment was constructed in the decades following World War II? Thus, much of our built environment is from the recent past. Many of these resources are now reaching the point where they are now considered, gulp, historic. These resources, though abundant, face a plethora of preservation challenges, from a lack of appreciation to severe deterioration. To further complicate matters, many preservationists feel that these resources are not worthy of preservation efforts, others feel diverting attention to these resources puts “older” resources at risk and others are simply overwhelmed by the sheer abundance of them. International organizations like the World Monuments Fund and national organizations like the US National Trust for Historic Preservation have recognized the significance of this issue and have launched initiatives to bring international attention to the issue of the preservation of our more recent heritage.
Why should I take this class?
The reality is that if you are a student in the SBA, it is highly likely that, at some point in your career, you will have to deal with these resources. This innovative class will give SCAD students a competitive edge; contribute to the field of preservation and, ideally, help advance recent past preservation methodology on a national scale. If that last sentences meant nothing to you, fear not, they will by the end of the course. Suffice it to say, we will be doing a really cool, innovative final project. It will also be a lot of fun.
What will I learn?
• Basic preservation methodology and history including survey, documentation and evaluation.
• The history of the preservation of the recent past.
• Understand the philosophical issues associated with the preservation of our more recent heritage.
• Learn how to describe the architecture from the period and understand the types of historic resources common to the period.
• What innovative and cool efforts are taking place nationally and internationally to preserve and promote our more recent heritage
• Discuss existing models and methods for the survey, documentation and evaluation of the recent past in the US and abroad.
Do I need to be a historic preservation major?
Nope. We will go over the basics in the class so if you would like to learn more about historic preservation this class is a great opportunity to do that.
Who is teaching the class?
Professor Lambin. She is the departmental blogger, a Professor of Historic Preservation and author of Preserving Resources from the Recent Past.