From the Editor

Taking the Art of Masonry Literally

Jennie Farnsworth, managing editor
jen@lionhrtpub.com

This month, masonry will be taken from the streets of everyday America and showcased at the National Building Museum's "Masonry Variations" exhibit for its artistic nature, historical value, all-around versatility and, despite the beliefs of some, its ability to be utilized in architectural innovations. Curators, press, mason craftworkers, architects, engineers and the public will all gather in the nation's capital on October 18^th to begin a celebration of what we know as the art of masonry.

The word "museum" conjures up visions of old, dusty antiquities that are unused and outdated in the present time. In the case of this museum, this is hardly true. Opened to the public in 1985, the National Building Museum strives to illuminate the building process and to document changing styles and techniques in the building arts. Although they will honor the history of this centuries old trade, the focus will mainly be on masonry's rightful place in the modern and futuristic building community.

For the main exhibit, the Museum has commissioned works by four cutting-edge architects working in teams with master craftworkers to explore the unique potential of each material. These innovative and creative installations will be displayed in a series of galleries. Accompanying this main exhibit, the Museum — along with the "Masonry Variations" sponsors, the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers and the International Masonry Institute — will offer several opportunities to take part, explore and observe various aspects of the art.

One aspect of the opening-day exhibit, the Masonry Mania Family Festival, also stresses that masonry has something for everyone, no matter the age. At this free, all-day event, visitors can join the staff of the International Masonry Institute as they provide graphic displays and hands-on activities designed to educate the public about masonry crafts. Hands-on demonstrations will allow participants to work with brick, stone, marble, tile, terrazzo and plaster. Masons will also explain the techniques used in working with these varied materials and have samples of the materials on hand. In a "Construction Zone," children can build with both large and small bricks. Visitors will have the opportunity to create their own masonry sculptures and participate in other educational activities.

Finally, in addition to the interactive displays, the International Masonry Institute will hold its International Apprentice Contest at the Museum on that day. Festival visitors will be able to watch 30 apprentice contestants from across the United States and Canada, representing the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, complete projects in six masonry craft areas.

Much like the Masonry Showcase, being held in Las Vegas, March 21-25, the National Building Museum exhibit stresses the importance of masonry — the strength of its past and the strength of its future.