The lecture series Mexican Architecture: Syncretism, globalization, cultural identity and historical scenarios was held on September 25 and October 2 and 9 at the Mark Taper Auditorium in the Los Angeles Central Library as part of the permanent program of academic activities being run by the University of Guadalajara at Los Angeles (UDGLA).

The lecture series was hosted by UDGLA in coordination with the UDG Center of Arts, Architecture & Design and with the support of the University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America, Inc. The objective of the event was to provide an overview of the main trends in Mexican architecture, with a particular reflection on the way in which they constitute an expression of cultural identity within a historical context.

This series consisted of three keynote lectures conducted in Spanish. The first lecture, entitled “Recent works,” was given on October 25 by Teodoro González de León, a graduate of the Autonomous University of Mexico and the designer of many of Mexico’s significant economic, political, sporting, cultural and social spaces. Among his most outstanding works are the Mexican embassies in Germany, Belize, Brazil and Guatemala, Colegio de México, the National Auditorium, the Rufino Tamayo Museum, and the Federal Palace of Justice.

The second lecture, entitled “New trends in architecture. Latest proposals,” was given by Bernardo Gómez Pimienta, dean of Anahuac University North’s School of Architecture and a member of the National Architecture Academy. Among his most recognized projects are the National Theater School, the HABITA hotel, the renovation of the Theater of the Insurgents and the TELEVISA Services building, all of which are in Mexico City. He has received more than 40 awards in recognition of his architectural work.

To close the series, the architect and University of Guadalajara graduate Leopoldo Fernández Font delivered the lecture, “A historical review of architecture and urban planning in Guadalajara” on October 9. Fernández Font is professor emeritus at the National Academy of Architecture, in addition to being a professor at the University of Guadalajara’s Center of Arts, Architecture & Design. His most outstanding works include the Aranzazú and Sheraton Bugambilias hotels, the world headquarters of Iglesia de la Luz del Mundo (Light of the World Church) and the National Chamber of Commerce of Guadalajara.

The series was intended for university students, graduates and professionals interested in updating and enhancing their knowledge of architecture and Mexican history, as well as for individuals eager to learn more about culture and art in Mexico.