The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Medal (JKOM) is Municipal Art Society’s (MAS) highest honor, now in its 54th year. This year the JKOM recognized two New York–based women architects who need no introduction: Elizabeth Diller and Annabelle Selldorf, celebrated at an event on October 6 in the Seagram Building.
This is the first time the JKOM has been awarded to two architects simultaneously. Diller and Selldorf were recognized for the outsized impacts they have each had on New York City’s civic and cultural life.
Keri Butler, MAS president, pointed to the recent renovation at the Frick by Selldorf Architects, and Diller Scofidio + Renfro’s High Line as architecture projects that stand out. Butler said each architect “demonstrate[s] how thoughtful urban design and architecture can respect cultural heritage while meeting the critical needs of New Yorkers today.”
“In a fast-paced, economically-driven metropolis like New York, MAS plays a critical role in the city’s infrastructure, looking after the interests of the public,” Diller shared in a statement. “I’m honored to receive this award from MAS for any part my studio has played in the growth and well-being of the city I love so dearly.”
Selldorf added: “Whether restoring a historic building or designing public infrastructure, I have always found New York City to be an inspiring place to build. To be acknowledged by MAS, whose work upholds the values of livability, resilience, and civic engagement in urban life, is incredibly moving.”
On stage, architecture critic Paul Goldberger awarded the medal to Diller, and Frick collection director Axel Rüger presented Selldorf’s.
Last year’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Medal recipients were: Sandra Bloodworth, director of MTA Arts & Design; and artists Yoko Ono and Patti Smith.
Past architects who have received the award are Robert A. M. Stern, who won in 2009; I.M. Pei in 1996; and Philip Johnson in 1983.
→ Continue reading at The Architect's Newspaper
