Walk-in registration available at 5:30 pm.

Learn about the life and work of Michael Graves (1934-2015), considered one of the most prominent and prolific designers and architects of the last half-century. Journalist Ian Volner conducted extensive interviews with the late architect as well as numerous conversations with his family, patrons, and colleagues. Volner shares stories about Graves's influential career as a champion of postmodernism; a product designer who gave us the world-famous Alessi whistling-bird teakettle; and, following a devastating illness that paralyzed him from the chest down, his late work as a tireless advocate for and designer of improved health-care products and facilities. Graves' local work includes the Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library in Alexendria, Virginia, St. Coletta of Greater Washington, in Washington, D.C., and the Wounded Warriors houses in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Following the talk, Volner signs copy of his book Michael Graves: Design for Life, which is available in the Museum Shop.

1.5 LU (AIA)

$12 Member | $10 Student | $20 Non-member. 

Spotlight on Design is sponsored by The Reva and David Logan Foundation.

Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

The Museum's award-winning Shop and Firehook Café are open for one hour prior to the start of the program. Shop and Café hours are subject to change.

Book cover of Michael Graves: Design for Life by Ian Volner. Published by Princeton Architectural Press.