12 x 12: Paul Preissner

Architecture and selective dog breeding converge as architect Paul Preissner uses digital technology to create building designs that strive to be strong and identifiable parts of a cityscape, rather than structures that anonymously blend in with their surroundings. He presents new architectural drawings, animations, and models whose unique combinations of surface patterns and "spotting" serve as a communicative strategy for identification similar to the habits of selective dog breeding that produce desired coat patterns and body shapes.

Preissner has developed his own unique architectural vocabulary. He is creating a catalogue or inventory of exterior surface patterns that may be selected, or "bred," to create a desired effect.

He leads a gallery talk along with Robert Somol, architectural theorist and Director of the School of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Chicago, to discuss current issues in architecture on Tuesday, March 17, at 6:30 pm.

UBS 12 x 12: New Artists/New Work
Paul Preissner