Friends and Supporters of AD EX,
In the time since we issued our last message, it feels like we are living in a new reality. As we continue to develop our path forward, our first priority is you – our visitors, supporters, tour-goers, docents, and friends.
To that end, we have suspended all tours and in-person events in March and April. Our gallery is currently closed with a planned reopening on May 4, but we will continue to monitor the situation. For a full list of programs impacted, competition deadline extensions, and updates, please click here.
Here at the AD EX, the heart of our mission is to foster the conversation about how architecture matters to you. Some of that has always been virtual through our social media channels that host vibrant discussions with followers and fans from around the world. However, most of our model has always been centered around in-person exhibitions, lectures, panel discussions, tours, and social events. As we work to shift our methods of delivery, please know we have many exciting initiatives that we are developing and launching.
AD EX works to foster curiosity in future generations as they interact with architecture and design in the world around them. We’ve created and compiled some at-home K-12 activities to inspire, encourage, and educate students about architecture while highlighting the importance of creative problem solving.
We are pleased to share instructions in both English and Spanish for our Build Your City! Shoebox Theater Edition, recommended for ages 6 to 106. Be instantly transported to any city and act out the different stories of the people who live there, or build your own fantasy city and create an entirely new culture. The Build Your City! Shoebox Theater Edition is perfect for imaginative play when you’re stuck inside all day. Please be sure to share your creations with us! Remember to tag @dallasadex and use #AtHomeWithADEX on Instagram for a chance to be featured.
We’ve also compiled several at-home architecture, engineering, and planning activities and lesson plans from partner organizations – view more here. Have an activity or an idea you’d like to share? Contact Katie Hitt at khitt@dallasadex.org.
Additional distance initiatives include a series of virtual talks, an e-book club, and a podcast series. Please stay tuned for more information. We’ve also created a new series, the Creative Exchange, a “Content Care Package” that includes some of our favorite architecture and design books, films, podcasts, and more here. Look for weekly updates, as well as recommendations from members of our architecture and design community. Many of the books, including signed copies, are available through the AD EX – view our selection of books, cards, and gifts here.
Now more than ever we need your support in this time when event and program cancellations are necessary for the safety of all. We hope you will consider making gifts to AD EX and local arts and nonprofit organizations to help sustain them during these trying times. Lastly, we encourage you to please contact your federal lawmakers at this link and ask them to include arts and culture in the multi-billion dollar fiscal rescue package that is being considered.
As new updates develop, we will keep you informed via email, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and our website. Thank you for your concern and your consideration of support for the AD EX during these uncertain times. We look forward to when we can once again host you at AD EX, as well as launch our Fair Park tram tour, continue our 2020 exhibition series, and more.
Sincerely,
Zaida Basora, FAIA Katie Hitt, Assoc. AIA
Executive Director Managing Director