Exploring Hidden Details of the University of Virginia in Winter
As winter descends upon the University of Virginia, the Grounds reveal a serene and understated beauty. With vibrant foliage giving way to a more subdued palette, this season offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the finer details that often go unnoticed.
Photographers Matt Riley and Lathan Goumas have taken advantage of this quieter time to capture the intricate textures and patterns that define UVA. Through their lenses, they invite us to explore these often-overlooked elements.
Reflective Contrasts at Cabell Hall
The windows of New Cabell Hall mirror the historic Old Cabell Hall, which was completed in 1898 and anchors the south end of the Academical Village. New Cabell Hall, added in 1952, provided additional space with 40 classrooms and 175 offices. “I was drawn to the contrast of the modern nature of the windows reflecting the historic features of Old Cabell,” Goumas explained.
History Layered on Beta Bridge
Originally known as the Rugby Road Bridge and renamed Beta Bridge in 1927, this structure bears layers of paint that tell stories of the past. The number 2006, visible in the paint layers, invites curiosity about the messages beneath.
Edgewater Lights: A Timeless Fixture
The standard path light fixture, known as “Edgewater,” dates back to the 1930s and was originally produced by Westinghouse. “In my 20 years at UVA, I’ve always loved the subtle character these lights add to the architecture on Grounds,” Riley remarked. He appreciates the frosted glass texture and the fixture’s enduring presence.
Ladder-Back Rocking Chairs Cast Shadows
Sunlight dances across a ladder-back rocking chair outside the West Range rooms. These iconic chairs, hand-crafted by Clore Furniture, accompany residents who choose to take them upon graduation. Goumas noted, “I was drawn to how the sun created distinct shadows and shapes of the rush strands that make up the seat.”
Stained Glass Vibrancy in UVA Chapel
A section of stained glass in the UVA Chapel captivates with its vibrant pattern and color. Most windows in the chapel date back to its construction between 1884-90. Riley shared, “While there are many unique figures and designs on the windows, this one caught my eye as I was exiting the chapel. It reminded me of a Rubik’s Cube.”
Botanical Beauty at the Rotunda Flagpole
The base of the flagpole on the west side of the Rotunda plaza features a botanical pattern, a hallmark of the City Beautiful movement. Installed around 1917, these flagpoles were part of efforts to enhance the Rotunda’s north side.
Artistic Details in Old Cabell Hall
Paint strokes bring to life a mural in Old Cabell Hall, “The Student’s Progress,” by Lincoln Perry. Completed in 2000, Goumas used a flash to highlight the brush strokes, revealing depth and texture.
Nature’s Resilience at the Sycamore Tree
A sycamore tree near the Rotunda grows atop a stone wall along University Avenue. “I’ve passed by that tree hundreds of times,” Riley said. “It’s quite a sight and a marvelous reminder of the power of Mother Nature.”
Shannon Library’s Enduring Knowledge
Weathered books in the Shannon Library, home to over 1.2 million volumes, evoke a sense of history and knowledge. Riley expressed, “I’ve always been fascinated by the clean lines, patterns and textures of books on the shelves in a library.”
Diverse Mail Slots on the Lawn
The varied sizes and shapes of mail slots along the Lawn reflect years of modifications. Riley observed, “I noticed the mail slots were different on the door next door, so I kept looking at the different mail slots, and this one with the words LETTERS stood out to me.”
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