Press Releases

GGA Leads Renovation of the Wilderness Society’s Ansel Adams Gallery

Washington, DC

GGA (GGA) is proud to serve as the lead designer for the renovation of the Wilderness Society’s Ansel Adams Gallery and existing headquarters in Washington, DC. This endeavor includes the reconfiguration of the entire 2nd floor office space and a remodeling of the society’s treasured art gallery, which exhibits some of Adams’ greatest work.
 
The highlight of the space was the creation of the new Ansel Adams Gallery. As a gift to the Wilderness Society, Adams himself donated 75 of his most important landscape photographs, broken into 12 different collections. Due to constraints of the existing layout, however, many of these pieces remained in storage. The collection is one of the best in the country and the new gallery showcases these works in a simple backdrop with architectural elements that enhance the artwork and overall learning experience.
 
Free-flowing compartments create space within space and symbolize the separation of one collection from another. A central wall serves as the “spine” of the gallery in which two contrasting settings exist on either side. Looking out over the plaza, the main side of the spine makes use of natural light filtering in through screened windows. High ceilings give the area a sense of openness that parallels the rolling land found throughout many of Adams’ images. On the opposing side, a narrower, more intimate setting uses soft lighting and low ceilings to draw visitors toward the photographs and the intimacy of the detailed landscapes.

The mechanical systems and lighting were closely integrated into the space to make them transparent to the visitor but delivered the systems function in a way that enhanced the setting, showcased the photos and protected assets.

“GGA is proud to work with the Wilderness Society to create a permanent home for this important piece of photographic history,” said Lewis J. Goetz, FAIA, FIIDA, President and CEO, GGA. “The organic design of the new Ansel Adams Gallery further enhances the viewing experience and creates an oasis for visitors to learn about photography.”
For images of the new Ansel Adams Gallery,please visit www.gga.com

 
For more information, contact Lauren Searl at 202-777-0493 or press@gga.com.