Letter from the Editors

Dear Reader,

We’re very excited to bring you the first issue of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art’s (ICAA) new biannual digital publication, Forum: New Perspectives on Design.

Our intention with this publication is to highlight the exciting new practitioners, projects, and ideas emerging from the world of classical, traditional, and vernacular art and design. In ancient Rome, the Forum was the center of public life: a place for gathering, deliberation, and exchange. The idea of the forum as a space of assembly and debate has persisted through the modern day. This forum will, we hope, further the great classical tradition of intellectual exchange by providing members of the ICAA community with a platform to share their ideas, stories, and projects.

Our first issue features a brilliant group of talented practitioners, representing a variety of backgrounds, approaches, and disciplines. Architect Matt Loumeau shares his process for designing the new Arthur Ross Awards Trophy; traditional woodworker Hank Silver discusses his experience working on the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral; architect and interior designer Whitley Esteban gives us a look inside the room where it happens at Studio Tre; architect Eric Osth brings us on a classical tour of Point Breeze, Pittsburgh; and photographer Eric Piasecki highlights the art and science of photographing traditional interiors.

Classicism is a living tradition: rooted in the past, but building for the future. It is our hope that this publication will help to inspire a new generation of architects, designers, artisans, artists, and enthusiasts to engage with classical, traditional and vernacular design languages as the foundations that allow us to build beautiful and enduring communities. Thank you to our wonderful contributors and to our ICAA members, who make it possible for us to bring classicism to new audiences through projects like this one.

We hope you enjoy this first issue of Forum!

Sincerely,

The Forum Editorial Team

Peter Lyden, Brandon Mitchell, Sammy Zimmerman, Jared Goss, Anne Lazar, and Mark Pledger