Telesis, the Gibbs College of Architecture’s award-winning student journal, is releasing its fifth edition in Fall 2023. This edition, “Adaptive Practice,” called for contributions from interdisciplinary problem solvers who reject the status quo and redefine “business as usual” through their work.
Telesis “Adaptive Practice” features work that aids in the restructuring of current practices, addresses the ever-changing socioeconomic and political climates and dives deep into the ideals of adaptive practice in the built environment and beyond. The word “adaptive” invokes ideas of fluidity and change, an ever-present evolution of ideals and methodologies.
A spread from Telesis: Adaptive Practice.
According to the publication, “Adaptive practice in architecture acknowledges the dynamic nature of contemporary society and seeks to create buildings and spaces that can respond to evolving needs and conditions. This approach is particularly relevant in an era marked by rapid urbanization, climate change, and technological advancements, which are transforming the way we live and work.”
Produced by students, Telesis has been recognized by national awards and grants for its exceptional quality. During its first year, the journal was awarded the Douglas Haskell Award for Student Journals. Telesis was also awarded a grant from the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in Fine Art which assisted with the publication “Habitation” and “Adaptive Practice.” Telesis “Isolation” was awarded the 2022 Douglas Haskell Award for Student Journals.
A spread from Telesis: Adaptive Practice.
This issue was coordinated by Felipe Flores, Architecture Ph.D. student and course instructor of Telesis, and Angela Person, Associate Professor of Architecture and Faculty Advisor of Telesis. The contributing student authors in Telesis “Adaptive Practice” include Ben Jawad, Fadi Kandalaft, Trey London, Jordan Fields, Abigail Janka, Kayarash Kayarami, and Kevin Michael Ozmum.
View the PDF of Telesis “Adaptive Practice” below or on the Telesis webpage.
Robert L. Wesley, a pioneering architect and beloved mentor, has died at age 88. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Wesley joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1964 and became the firm's first Black partner in 1984. Throughout his career, he contributed to significant architectural projects while maintaining a strong commitment to civic engagement and professional mentorship.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to celebrate a series of recent accomplishments by Dr. Jim Collard, Professor of Practice in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture, and Design, whose work continues to shape conversations around Indigenous economic development nationally and internationally.
University of Oklahoma Gibbs College of Architecture Dean Hans E. [PA1.1]Butzer returned to one of his most significant works on December 15, joining survivors and past and present board members for the groundbreaking of a $15.8 million expansion of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.