The Architectural Terra Cotta of Gladding McBean
Saturday, July 26, 2008 Elements International, 1825 NW 19th Avenue at Thurman |
 |
Prepare for a glittering step back in time – Gladding McBean’s work ranges from early San Francisco “cloud scrapers” to Hollywood movie palaces. Established in 1875, the company has remained the pre-eminent producer of architectural terra cotta in the western United States for more than a century.
They provided terra cotta for more than 80 Portland buildings. Meier & Frank (now Macy’s), the Journal Building (now the Jackson Tower), Multnomah County Courthouse, the Albina Branch of the County Library system, and the Central Eastside’s Logus Block are just a few of the buildings still standing whose distinctive terra cotta facades grace our city.
Elements International will host this special program, featuring a presentation by Pete Pederson, company historian for Gladding McBean. His program will include an overview of the firm’s history, the process of making this “hand-made” material, terra cotta’s use today, and why it has withstood the test of time.
You’ll be inspired by Element International’s showroom and collection of Gladding McBean pottery. A reception with refreshments will follow, generously provided by our hosts. Pre-registration is requested to plan for seating and refreshments.