Through the lens of Buddhism: Space, Time and Preservation in Bangkok and Siem Reap

This month David Eisen FAIA, principal at Abacus Architects + Planners, will present a photographic survey of Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Siem Reap (Angkor Wat and environs). Buddhism shapes Thai and Cambodian views of the past, present and future and the role that urban places play in reaffirming personal and cultural identity. The universality of faith creates a shared assessment of what is meaningful in the physical environment, and what can be sacrificed in pursuit of economic and technological progress. The clear demarcation of sacred and profane spaces defines attitudes to preservation that differ in significant ways from those in the United States and most of Europe. Mr. Eisen will employ his photographic survey to suggest that historic forms and spaces embody culture-based and universal meanings that should inform approaches to historic preservation, as part of a multi-directional dialogue.

For those who qualify, 1.5 LUs are available

To learn more about the Historic Resources Committee, visit architects.org/committees/historic-resources-committee

Click "Register" to attend.