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Designing the Desert, and Other Landscapes: The Architecture of Paul R. Williams

The first Black architect to practice in the western U.S., Paul R. Williams' groundbreaking architecture left an indelible impact. Getty curators preview exhibitions marking his archive's public debut.

Celebrated as the first Black architect to practice in the western U.S., Paul R. Williams was a significant, yet understudied figure. With his keen eye for detail, innovative design work, and staggeringly prolific output, the groundbreaking architecture he realized left a significant impact both nationally and internationally—especially visible across the development of Modernist Palm Springs.

This talk convenes Getty curators who will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming exhibition series, I Am an Architect: Paul R. Williams, slated to launch in late 2026 at Getty, LACMA, and USC. Marking the public debut of his archive, curators will share archival highlights to provide new perspectives on this groundbreaking figure, with insights into his life, his design signatures, and his widespread impact, both in Palm Springs and globally, examined anew. This preview commences a yearlong celebration of this pivotal architect and his legacy.

Presented by Getty Research Institute (GRI), Curatorial Department / LeRonn Brooks, Maristella Casciato, Gary Riichirō Fox and Alex Jones.

Photo Credits: © J. Paul Getty Trust. Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2004.R.10)

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person All ages
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash No pets, service animals permitted
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Seated activity
  • What type of parking is available?Car Parking & handicap parking available
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Restrooms available
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Indoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of ADA accessibility is available?Wheelchair Wheelchair accessible
The organizer of this event is: Modernism Week Annenberg Theater Activity

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