The Octagon Museum Opens Barcelona Projects Exhibit

September 10, 2008—Organized by the Embassy of Spain and the local government of Barcelona, the exhibition Barcelona Projects: Building the Future surveys the current state of urban development and revitalization of one of Spain’s most vibrant cities.  Opening to the public on September 9, the exhibition will remain on view through October 31, 2008.  The exhibition is part of the Spanish Embassy’s Preview Spain: Arts and Culture, a series of programs with local institutions to celebrate the 2010 opening of the SPAIN/US House for cultural relations and diplomacy in Washington, DC.

 The exhibition originally opened in Barcelona, and is a collaboration between Barcelona’s local government and El Consorci de la Zona Franca, a city institution linking urbanism, architecture and economic development.  Barcelona Projects focuses on work in Barcelona by architects and urban designers, and the city’s goal of achieving sustainable development while maintaining the citizens’ quality of life.  In addition to photographs, plans and maps, three models are featured in the exhibition, including a development designed by well known architect Zaha Hadid.

The American Architectural Foundation (AAF) is a national nonprofit organization that seeks to education individuals and community leaders about the power of architecture to improve lives and transform the places where we live, learn, work and play.  Through numerous outreach programs including exhibitions, grants, and education resources, AAF aims to inspire people to become thoughtful and engaged stewards of the world around them.  AAF is located in the Octagon, a historic house located near the White House.

The American Institute of Architects Headquarters Gallery is located directly behind the Octagon, at 1735 New York Avenue, NW, Washington, DC.  The gallery hours are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.  Admission is free.