Modernism in the American Desert · Rick Joy · Tucson

Event Details

Part of the Modernism in the American Desert symposium, this talk explores how architects and designers shaped a distinctive vision of modern life in the arid landscapes of the American West. Through climate, light, and material, the desert became both inspiration and laboratory for innovation—revealing how modernism took root and flourished across the region.

Rick Joy FAIA, Int. FRIBA 

Originally from Maine, Rick studied music at the University of Maine and Fine Arts at the then Portland School of Art and was a classical percussionist and funk and blues drummer until the age of 28.  In 1985 he moved to Tucson to study Architecture at the University of Arizona. Upon graduation in 1990, Rick began a 3-year appointment on the design team for the 280,000sf Phoenix Central Library with William Bruder Architects in Phoenix. In 1993 Rick established Rick Joy Architects as founding/managing principal. In 20xx Rick changed the firm name to Studio Rick Joy to reflect the inclusive nature of the firm.  Rick is also the co-founder/owner of CLL Concept Lighting Lab with his wife Claudia Kappl Joy.