November 5 – 9, 2025, (Tucson, Arizona) Tucson Modernism Week continues through Sunday, November 9, with major public programming taking place this weekend. Presented by the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation, the annual event celebrates the region’s legacy of modern architecture, art, and design through lectures, exhibitions, tours, and special programs.

The two-day symposium Modernism in the American Desert begins Friday, November 7, and continues Saturday, November 8. The program brings leading architects, historians, designers, and cultural scholars together to examine the evolution of desert modernism and the role of climate, materials, and place in shaping regional architecture. On Friday evening, the Keynote Conversation with architectural historian Alan Hess and Adrian Scott Fine, head of the Los Angeles Conservancy, will explore the development of modern architecture in the American West and the ongoing preservation challenges across the region. The keynote is free, with RSVP required at TucsonMod.com.

Two exhibitions are free and open to the public throughout the week:

Charles Clement: Designer Craftsman at the Bondante House
A focused retrospective exhibition on artist and architect Charles Clement, presented inside a recently restored 1956 residence he designed. The exhibition highlights Clement’s work in architecture, ceramics, metal, and graphic design. Wednesday - Saturday 10AM - 3PM, Free, 5111 East Citrus Street. 

Herb Greif: Icon
An exhibition and public conversation documenting the life and influence of Herb Greif and his contributions to Tucson’s architectural and cultural landscape. Wednesday - Saturday 9AM–6 PM, Sunday Noon - 5PM, Free, Copenhagen Imports 3660 E Fort Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85716

On Sunday, November 9, Tucson Modernism Week concludes with the Tucson Modernism Home Tour, offering rare interior access to a curated selection of significant modern private residences. The self-guided tour highlights the continued stewardship and restoration of mid-century and contemporary desert homes including works by Judith Chafee, Bruce Goff, and William Wilde.

“A central aim of Tucson Modernism Week is to expand public understanding of the region’s design heritage,” said Demion Clinco, CEO of the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation. “This week’s programming underscores how architecture, art, and landscape intersect to create a cultural identity that is specific to Southern Arizona.”

“Tucson Modernism Week has become an essential platform for recognizing the architects, designers, and artists who shaped our city,” said Michael Fassett, Board President, Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation. “The symposium, exhibitions, and tours this week honor that history while supporting ongoing preservation efforts.”

Tickets remain for the symposium and Home Tour. VIP passes provide guaranteed access to major programs. Full schedule and ticketing information at TucsonMod.com.

Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation

The mission of the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to preserve the city’s unique architectural environment.  The non-profit organization advocates for the preservation of Tucson’s architectural resources and is working to preserve iconic Tucson landmarks. The organization is a vigilant advocate for historic preservation in Tucson and the surrounding area. View them online at www.preservetucson.org.

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