




Client: University of St. Thomas
Location: Saint Paul, MN, United States
Completion date: 2008
Project Team
Artist
Alexander Tylevich
Tylevich Studio
Industry Resource
Hadi Sajadi
Hadi and Structures
Industry Resource
Casting Creations
Liturgical Consultant
James Notebaart
Overview
The Saint Thomas Aquinas Chapel Renovation is an example of one of my very collaborative projects, introducing contemporary art into historic architecture.
Goals
Saint Thomas Aquinas Chapel was designed in 1917 by Emmanuel Masqueray, a French Beaux Arts architect. Over the years, the chapel saw a number of additions that replaced the original terminus and introduced foreign materials. Two challenges we had to address during the renovation processes included: making all furnishings moveable for concert performances, and introducing a crucifix that helped create a focus for liturgical events. The cross is surrounded by a crown of thorns and a wreath of curved dichroic glass. The moveable bronze gates become the theological terminus to the space.
Additional Information
This project won a IFRAA/AIA Design Award.