World Congress on Art Deco V

"Decophiles" from around the world gathered in Napier, New Zealand, in February for the World Congress on Art Deco V. Deco on the Edge was the theme of the Congress. The theme was reflective of two meanings of the word edge: Deco architecture was considered "cutting edge" when it was produced in the 1920's and 30's, and the Congress looked specifically at New Zealand Deco, a country on the edge of the world.

Napier provided a unique venue. Following a 7.9 earthquake in 1931, the ruined city center was rebuilt completely in the Art Deco style. The resulting cityscape may be the densest concentration of Deco buildings anywhere in the world. The consistent quality of the designs rivals Miami Beach.

Tulsa was represented at the Congress by Robert Powers, THS curator. Powers presented a slide show of Tulsa treasures that will be showcased when the World Congress VI convenes in Tulsa in April, 2001. The Tulsa Historical Society will be the official sponsor of this prestigious event.