Church Architecture Seminar—Schedule
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Presented by Andrew Gould
8:00 a.m. Common Worship and Breakfast: Germack Building Refectory
9:00 a.m. First Lecture: Education Building, Bashir Auditorium
An overview of the history and development of Orthodox church architecture, focusing on the basic floor plan typologies, their strengths and weaknesses, and their practicality today. We will also discuss the artistic and symbolic interpretations of Orthodox architecture, with a special emphasis on the continuous revival of an Imperial Roman aesthetic in Byzantium, and an exploration of how that aesthetic was adapted by nations that had different climates and building technologies. We will conclude with a look at some churches designed by Mr. Gould, focusing on how they combine Orthodox tradition with American architectural traditions and building practices.
12:00 p.m. Lunch: Germack Building Refectory
1:00 p.m Second Lecture: Education Building, Bashir Auditorium
Expanding the scope of architecture beyond the building itself, we will explore the interplay of all the visual arts that contribute to the Orthodox liturgy. The building is only the beginning of the visual experience of the liturgy, and the icons, frescoes, furniture, vestments, etc. complete the effect. The furnishings of a traditional Orthodox church are so prominent that it is essential to consider them as a fundamental part of the architectural aesthetic. We will explore the role of the iconostasis and frescoes, the various historical styles of church furniture, and the particular contribution of textiles. This will be partly a group discussion in which we consider the decline of these arts in modern church history, and propose solutions for traditionally furnishing an Orthodox church today.
