Northern Nevada architecture is one of the foundations of our business, and in many ways, it represents a picture book of economic growth and social history. In Reno and Sparks, many buildings have historical significance and architectural character.
In recognition of this and the people who have helped contribute to the development of our great state, the Nevada Museum of Art is hosting an exhibition featuring Janna Ireland, a contemporary photographer who explores the legacy of architect Paul Revere Williams.
That’s why Ireland, who has also worked hard to overcome adversity in her life, made it her mission to show not only the blueprints and lines of Williams’ work but also of his heart and soul. Instead of photographing his buildings and structures from a distance, Ireland focuses on the intimate details with black and white photography. By doing so, she removes distractions and allows us to view Williams' work in a new light.
If this iconic duo inspires you, check out one of these events below. From hands-on activities at the Museum to expert-led discussions and walking tours, you can learn more about Nevada architecture and the impact of Williams’ on our region.
At Dickson Realty, we are proud to share information about Northern Nevada architecture as it provides homes for our clients and community members. For more information about living in Reno/Sparks, contact one of our REALTORS today.
From single-family homes to exquisite mansions to steel-built apartment complexes, Williams helped shape the west. If you’ve ever strolled the streets of downtown Reno, taken an afternoon jaunt through Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, or driven through the Las Vegas strip, then you’ve more than likely seen one of his unique and charming designs.As proud supporters of this exhibition, we’re sharing insight into how Ireland aims to contribute to the larger conversation about Williams’ architectural work in Nevada. You can also check out the community events, walking tours, discussions, and other activities. The exhibition will run in Reno from July 2 to October 2 before traveling to the Nevada State Museum in Las Vegas. Here’s how you can get involved.
Photography Exhibit In Reno Showcases The History Of Nevada Architecture, Culture, and Life
Where Art and Architecture Collide
Paul Revere Williams was an artist. He had an eye for innovation, turning houses into homes and homes into communities. In part, this is what inspired Janna Ireland to start her more than five-year-long journey photographing structures he designed. Ireland first discovered Williams’ projects in Hollywood and the greater Los Angeles area, where he spent his early career designing mansions for celebrities such as Frank Sinatra and Lucille Ball. She later discovered his special relationship with Nevada architecture. In her artist statement about the exhibition, she describes Williams' ability to break through barriers.In 1923, Williams became the first certified Black architect of the American Institute of Architects. As a pioneer in the industry, he had to overcome years of social discrimination and prejudice. Some examples include learning to draw upside down because he couldn’t sit next to clients and walking with his arms behind his back to avoid interactions with people who didn’t want to shake his hand.“Paul R. Williams (1894-1980) is most well known as a barrier-breaking Black architect who designed grand homes that epitomized Hollywood glamor,” Ireland states.
That’s why Ireland, who has also worked hard to overcome adversity in her life, made it her mission to show not only the blueprints and lines of Williams’ work but also of his heart and soul. Instead of photographing his buildings and structures from a distance, Ireland focuses on the intimate details with black and white photography. By doing so, she removes distractions and allows us to view Williams' work in a new light.
If this iconic duo inspires you, check out one of these events below. From hands-on activities at the Museum to expert-led discussions and walking tours, you can learn more about Nevada architecture and the impact of Williams’ on our region.
Between the Lines of Paul Revere Williams’ Designs
Hands ON! Second Saturday – Lines and Architecture
- 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, August 13
- 160 W. Liberty St., Reno, NV 89501, Nevada Museum of Art
- Free for general admission and members
A Look Inside the Historic Ranch House at Rancho San Rafael
- 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, August 27
- 1595 N. Sierra Street in Reno
- $15 or $10 for members
Art Bite: Alicia Barber on Paul Revere Williams’ Architectural Legacy in Central and Northern Nevada
- Noon, Friday, September 16
- 160 W. Liberty St., Reno, NV 89501, Nevada Museum of Art
- $15 or free for members
Exploring The El Reno Apartment Homes
- Noon, Sunday, September 11, 2022
- 301 S. Center Street, Downtown Reno Library
Member’s After Hours
- 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, September 29
- 160 W. Liberty St., Reno, NV 89501, Nevada Museum of Art
- Free for members
Tour At Your Own Pace—The Architecture of Paul Revere Williams
- Virtual
- Reno Historical
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A Look Inside The Lens Of Janna Ireland
If this article on the history of Reno, Nevada architecture or exhibition speaks to you, visit the Museum Shop for a copy of Janna Ireland’s book, “Regarding Paul R. Williams: A Photographer’s View.” Inside, you’ll find an intimate series of more than 200 fine-art black-and-white photographs exploring Williams’ contributions to Southern California and Nevada architecture. “Regarding Paul R. Williams” is more than a book of buildings and homes—it is the result of one artist’s encounter with another, a special relationship built between art and the built environment around us.At Dickson Realty, we are proud to share information about Northern Nevada architecture as it provides homes for our clients and community members. For more information about living in Reno/Sparks, contact one of our REALTORS today.
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