In the early 1960s, pioneering Black architect Nathan Johnson emerged as an influential force in Detroit’s long architectural history. His career reached a high point in 1987 with the opening of the Detroit People Mover, for which Johnson’s firm designed all of the stations. Author, photographer and architectural historian Dale A. Carlson examines Johnson’s life, career and distinctive body of work, tracing his influence through some of Detroit’s more unexpected architectural landmarks. The People Mover stations are perhaps his most visible legacy, but his work also includes Stanley Hong’s Mannia Cafe on E. Baltimore and Johnson’s own home at 961 W. Boston, offering a glimpse of the breadth of his work beyond the People Mover.
ARCHITECTURE LECTURE SERIES
Architect of Entertainment: C. Howard Crane | Oct. 10
The Firm That Built Detroit: Smith, Hinchman & Grylls | Nov. 7
Detroit's Palace Architect: Louis Kamper | Dec. 5
Sacred Spaces and City Landmarks: Spier & Rohns | Jan. 16