It’s time to have your say on the Citgo sign’s future
A report by the Boston Landmarks Commission notes the Citgo sign’s role as the city’s “only surviving ‘spectacular’ neon sign.” PHOTO: DAVID L. RYAN/GLOBE STAFF/FILE
From the Boston Globe: The debate over the future of the Citgo sign is still quietly grinding on. Now it’s the public’s turn to weigh in on what — if anything — should be done to protect the fixture on Boston’s skyline.
The Boston Landmarks Commission has a hearing scheduled for Tuesday on its proposal to designate the famous sign as an official city landmark, which would help protect it from future development that might cause the sign to be moved, or block views of the oil company billboard, which for decades has lit up Kenmore Square.
Memorable gas stations that offer more than fuel
It’s not just cars that get to refuel at Pops in Arcadia, Oklahoma. Humans have their choice of 700 different types of soda at this gas station.
From KREM2: A service station doesn’t have to be an obligatory stop on a road trip – it can be part of the fun. “A gas station can draw you in to a place,” says Sascha Friesike, author of “It’s a Gas! The Allure of the Gas Station” (Gestalten Books, $60). The assistant business professor in Holland fell in love with filling up during childhood trips to America with his parents and shares some favorite finds with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.
A major mid-century modern bank in Oklahoma City gets leveled
The Oklahoma City Founders National Bank, designed by Oklahoma City–architect Bob Bowlby in 1964, began demolition on Monday, October 8, 2018, after years of rumors of its impending destruction. PHOTO: Lynne Rostochil/Via OKC Mod
From The Architects Newspaper: A long-loved landmark in Oklahoma City faced the wrecking ball yesterday after being placed on the state’s Most Endangered Historic Places list in May. The former Founders National Bank, a mid-century modern structure featuring two distinct, 50-foot exterior arches, was listed for sale at $3 million last fall but couldn’t find a tenant leading up to Monday’s last-minute demolition, according to Oklahoma’s News 4.
Situated near the Northwest Expressway on North May Avenue, the iconic building has been an architectural icon of the city since 1964. It was designed by Bob Bowlby, a student of famous Oklahoma architect Bruce Goff, and was originally built for Founders National Bank, eventually becoming the home of Bank of America for over 20 years until last August. It was Bowlby’s first project after finishing his degree at the University of Oklahoma and the only one he’s completed in his hometown.
Shimmering Zen: Different Way to View Las Vegas Landmarks, Neon in new Digital Photo Book & Exhibit — Book Launch at Neon Museum Ne10 Studio Oct. 13, Exhibit until Nov. 24
Coin Castle by Las Vegas artist James Stanford has been created through innovative purpose-specific digital technology and influenced by Zen Buddhism.
From Nevada Business: LAS VEGAS – For the first time in North America, Las Vegas artist James Stanford will introduce his photography book, “Shimmering Zen,” which features a unique interpretation of vintage Las Vegas neon signs and architectural elements through innovative purpose-specific digital technology and Zen Buddhism. The book is being published by Smallworks Press, a specialty arts and publication company.
Stanford is a Las Vegas native and Zen Buddhist and combines his love of the city – particularly from the 1950s and 1960s – and philosophy with art for conceptually complex and visually captivating images that invite contemplation of both spiritual and material realities. His work represents an interpretation of the ancient traditions of Buddhism, drawing from historic metaphor, Chinese fable and the aesthetics of the mandala, a ritual and spiritual symbol used in both Buddhism and Hinduism to represent the universe.
Miami Motel Stories Returns for a Second Season at the Gold Dust
Actress Sandi Stock as a 1960s Playboy Bunny. PHOTO: Pedro Portal/Courtesy of Juggerknot Theatre Company
From Miami New Times: Juggerknot Theatre Company brought immersive theater to Miami last year with the inaugural Miami Motel Stories: Little Havana, which took over the historic Tower Hotel. Now the interactive production is back for round two, with its sights set on the MiMo District. In collaboration with the Vagabond Group, Juggerknot is reimagining the Gold Dust Motel (formerly Motel Blu) at 7700 Biscayne Blvd.
As with the first iteration, Miami Motel Stories: MiMo will feature original narratives by resident Juggerknot playwright Juan C. Sanchez.