On Sept 19, 2024, we celebrated a century of architectural and artistic achievement at the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) building in Washington, D.C. This special event, produced by CPNAS (Alana Quinn and JD Talasek), brought together experts and enthusiasts to explore the intersection of science and Art Deco, celebrating the pivotal figures behind this historic structure. As a descendant of one of those figures—Hildreth Meière—I had the privilege of joining the conversation and reflecting on the building's profound legacy.
The NAS building, completed in 1924, stands as a testament to the collaboration between science and the arts. Astrophysicist George Ellery Hale envisioned a space that celebrated scientific progress while also embracing artistic innovation. To realize this vision, he enlisted the talents of architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue who selected muralist Hildreth Meière, my great-grandmother, to create a building that embodied both elegance and purpose. Joining Hildreth on the artistic team were sculptor Lee Lawrie, and master builder Rafael Guastavino Jr. of the Guastavino Company.
During the evening, we delved into the stories behind this collaboration. Thomas Burnett highlighted Hale’s visionary role establishing the first building for the National Academy of Science and his dreams for the artistic program, while Steve Knight helped frame architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue approach and how NAS was before it's time as an Art Deco example. I had the honor of sharing Hildreth Meière’s journey—how her early work on the Great Hall and the Dome of NAS influenced her career, which would go on to span over 100 significant commissions.
One key theme that resonated throughout the event was how creativity and innovation transcend disciplines. Hildreth’s work, much like the science her murals celebrated, required experimentation, perseverance, and vision. This collaborative spirit was echoed by Caroline Mesrobian Hickman, who discussed the building’s decorative program, further demonstrating how science can be expressed beautifully through art.
The evening concluded with an engaging Q&A session, moderated by JD Talasek and a chance for community members to share their work at the intersection of art and science. As we mingled during the reception in the Great Hall, it was clear that the NAS building continues to inspire new generations of creatives, scientists, and innovators.
This centennial not only marked the building’s lasting impact but also reminded us of the powerful role that collaboration plays in both art and science. Here’s to another 100 years of groundbreaking discoveries, bold visions, and stunning artistic achievements!
I look forward to continuing this conversation about the unique blend of art and science that Hildreth Meière so passionately contributed to, and to seeing how future generations will be inspired by the work she and others left behind.
— Anna Kupik, President of the International Hildreth Meière Association (IHMA)