Seeds of Regionalism The Clauss Legacy: Early Modernism in the South

This exhibition excavates the unheralded legacy of Alfred and Jane West Clauss, who, in 1939, created the first modern deed-restricted subdivision in America-known colloquially in Knoxville as “Little Switzerland.” In the process, the Clausses laid the groundwork for what we now recognize as regional modernism.

Through original artifacts—including photographs, drawings, posters, furniture, graphic maps, home videos, and timelines—Seeds of Regionalism traces the DNA of this architectural subdivision and explores how the Clausses’ move to East Tennessee inspired them to experiment with blending modernist ideas with local traditions and a strong sense of place.

EXHIBITION-RELATED PROGRAMS:
Seeds of Regionalism Opening Reception I Thursday, September 4, 5:30-8:30 pm

BENEFACTOR SPONSORS: AiA East Tennessee, Barbara & Steve Apking, Sandi Burdick & Tom Boyd, Susan French, Cecilia & Caesar Stair IV, Fred Trainer, Nancy Sharp Voith & Kenneth Stark Family

DIRECTORS CIRCLE SPONSORS: Julia & Gary Bentley, John M. Cotham, Louis Gauci & Kathy Franzel-Gauci, Jonathan & Kristen Miller, Lane Hays & Stuart Worden, Laura & Mark Heinz, Maribel Koella, Townes Osborn & Bob Marquis