Media Contact:
Rachael Lighty
rlighty@newschoolarch.edu
619.684.8775

World Renowned Architects Exchange Unique “Napkin Sketches” with NewSchool of Architecture & Design Students. For the sixth year in a row, the original sketches from well-known architects from around the world will be available for a public auction on May 19. All proceeds benefit the San Diego chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students.

NewSchool of Architecture & Design is pleased to announce that its students, in collaboration with the local San Diego chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), have exchanged unique “napkin sketches” with renowned architects from around the world, as part of a fundraising event to benefit AIAS. In this time-honored tradition, architects and designers use napkin sketches not only for self-reflection and self-thought, but also as a way to communicate spur of the moment inspiration. In its sixth year, this annual event and auction is free and open to the public and will take place on Friday, May 19, at 6 p.m. at Park Boulevard Catering, located across the street from NewSchool’s campus, at 734 Park Boulevard in San Diego.

Students and attendees are given the opportunity to bid, through a live auction, on original concepts designed exclusively for the event by well-renowned architects from the U.S. and around the globe. This year includes submissions from prominent architects such as: Billie Tsien, Larry Scarpa, Ian Ritchie, Glen Murcutt, Perry Kulper, Snohetta, Alvaro Siza, Norman Kelly, Chora, Alan Rosenblum, Richard Meier, Coop Himmelblau, Ban Van Berkel, Greg Lynn, Steven Holl and Chris Livingston.

NewSchool’s event began as a “sketch for a sketch” project where students crafted their own napkin sketches to capture the attention of well-known architects. These creations are then mailed to architects from around the world with a request for an original sketch that can be auctioned off during the event. This year students have received napkin sketches from more than 25 prominent architects. It’s a reminder that in an age of computer aided design, these individuals still value the art of thinking visually and drawing by hand.

Marvin J. Malecha, President of NewSchool of Architecture & Design, will also provide various sketches to be auctioned off. Throughout his illustrious career, Marvin has maintained an active involvement with architectural practice and has received numerous accolades and awards in the fields of architecture and design. Marvin was also elected as the first president/president elect (2008-2009) of the American Institute of Architects and served as the professional association’s National President in 2009.

“The practice of napkin sketching is something architects and designers have long turned to, to map out their initial visions with the goal of ultimately designing a lasting work of art,” said Marvin J. Malecha, President, NewSchool. “The dichotomy of a ‘throw away’ napkin and permanent, structured artwork adds to the specialness of the piece. Sharing this long held practice with the students is unique and inspiring. I’m delighted to include some of my napkin sketches in this year’s auction and to see the excitement students have in drafting their own designs and sharing with architects from around the world.”

WHO: NewSchool students exchange ‘napkin sketches’ with renowned architects as part of the Sixth Annual Napkin Sketch Auction, benefiting the American Institute of Architecture Students.

WHAT: This free event is open to the public and will include both a silent and live auction of original work sketched on napkins by renowned architects.

WHEN: Friday, May 19, 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: Park Boulevard Catering, 734 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

COST: FREE

CONTACT: Contact Rachael Lighty at rlighty@newschoolarch.edu or visit newschoolarch.edu

About NewSchool of Architecture & Design:

Located in downtown San Diego, NewSchool prepares students for career success in design fields through an emphasis on interdisciplinary and global design skills, industry collaborations and real-world projects. Programs of study include architecture, construction management, product design, media design, game development, and interior architecture & design. The school’s design environment provides inspiration for the school’s students and faculty, recognized for their work regionally and internationally. NewSchool is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission.

NewSchool’s Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture and Executive Master of Architecture programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). NewSchool is a member of the Laureate International Universities network – a global network of more than 80 campus-based and online universities in 28 countries. Through this network, students at NewSchool are prepared to work in a global and diverse work environment through the school’s collaborations with sister institutions in the Laureate network, including award-winning schools such as Domus Academy in Milan, Italy. For more information about Laureate International Universities, visit www.laureate.net.