Friends of Madden Library

Matthew Kahn
Photo: Stanford Online Report

Stanford University art professor Matthew Kahn will appear at the Jan. 9 program sponsored by Friends of the Madden Library. His presentation, “Cyclops: The Camera is not a Butterfly Net,” uses photographic images to convey the excitement of visual phenomena.

A reception will begin at 6 p.m. in the Library Solarium, followed by the program at 6:45 p.m. in the University Student Union, room 312.

As a professional designer, Kahn’s creations include architectural products, lighting, textiles, hardware and jewelry. Working with architects, he has designed recreation and medical facilities as well as residential communities. Kahn views design and the fine arts as kindred. In his studio, he makes an ongoing commitment to design, painting and writing on design. He focuses on the study of abstract visual language in the classroom just as he puts it to use in his work.

Kahn earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Cranbrook Art Academy and has been teaching at Stanford University for more than 50 years. He continues to evolve a design philosophy based upon the ideal of synthesis, the harmonious union of art, technology and service. This is most clearly expressed in Stanford University’s joint graduate design program linking Art and Mechanical Engineering, which he oversees. Kahn received the Dean’s Award for Distinguished Teaching in 1993.

Guests are welcome. A $2 charge will be collected at the door for non-members; $1 for students. All Friends of the Madden Library meetings are accessible to the physically handicapped. A sign-language interpreter will be provided upon advance request. For more information call 8-5790.