Stan Mathews
J. Stanley MathewsAssociate Professor Emeritus of Art and Architecture
Joined faculty in 2000
Ph.D., Columbia University
M.Arch, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
M.F.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
B.A., Beloit College
Contact Information
PERSONAL STATEMENT
I have an extremely varied background, possess diverse skills and interests, and hold three terminal degrees. I have a Master of Fine Arts, with a concentration in sculpture. I hold a Master of Architecture, and am a licensed architect. Most recently, I received my Doctorate in the history and theory of architecture. Therefore, in addition to being the Colleges’ resident authority on architectural history, theory and design, my students also know that I can answer their questions about design, drawing, woodworking, welding, sculpture, furniture making, graphic design, digital imaging, and structural engineering. Within the liberal arts setting of Hobart and William Smith Colleges, the wide range of my experience is an asset, and I derive great satisfaction from being able to use my range of skills.
I view the subject of architecture very broadly as a way of comprehending and shaping our surroundings, and as the quintessential convergence of disciplines. To me, architecture is inherently interdisciplinary discourse at the juncture between idealism and pragmatism, between art, physics, mathematics, psychology, anthropology, economics, politics and the environment, and I try to convey these convergences in my teaching. Indeed, my teaching is essentially interdisciplinary. In my classes, I constantly make connections between architecture and philosophy, or related social and cultural histories.