Tom Killian letters, 1960-2023
Collection context
- Creator:
- Killian, Tom
- Extent:
- 1.75 linear feet
- Language:
- English
- Scope and content:
-
The collection consists of correspondence dating from 1960 to 2013 between Killian and various individuals involved in architecture and the arts. These exchanges document the transition from the wholehearted embrace of Modernism in the 1960s to the questioning of the International Style that characterized 1990s Post-Modernism. The intense activity and intellectual ferment in New York City's architecture and art scenes of the time are well represented in the letters. Additionally, the collection includes correspondence with contemporary figures, such as Gordon Bunshaft and I.M. Pei, and features thematic discussions on Modernism, Brutalism, Post-Modernism, the direction of contemporary architecture, the value of vernacular architecture and culture, and specific architectural works.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Tom Killian (1931, Saint Louis, Missouri – 2024, New York City) was an architect and artist. He was an associate partner at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in New York, working alongside partners Roy Allen and Raul de Armas. He collaborated closely with Gordon Bunshaft, particularly on Bunshaft's final two projects: the new international airport in Jeddah (1976–1983) and the National Commercial Bank in Jeddah (1977–1984).
Access and use
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers are encouraged to request materials at least one month in advance. You will receive an email from the department within 2-3 business days confirming your request and currently available appointment times. Requests are limited to 8 boxes per day (or equivalent), with a maximum of 5 boxes for off-site materials, 5 folders of drawings, or 5 rolls or tube boxes.
- Contact:
- avery-drawings@columbia.edu