Gibbs College Presents “Vollendorf in Oklahoma” Exhibition in Spring 2026

Gibbs College is pleased to present the exhibition Vollendorf in Oklahoma: The Architecture of Dean Bryant Vollendorf during the Spring 2026 semester. It will be on display in Gould Hall, on the OU-Norman Campus, from February 16, 2026, to March 13, 2026. The opening reception will take place from 4:30–5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 17. Immediately following the opening reception is an open house at Vollendorf's Skylark Residence (2518 Acacia Court in Norman). The open house will be hosted by the homeowners, Meredith Worthen and Brian Eddins, from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

The exhibition features the works of Dean Bryant Vollendorf (1929-2008), an Organic Architect who was a Professor at the University of Oklahoma School of Architecture in the 1960s-1970s. Vollendorf's work was influenced by other architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), Bruce Goff (1904-82), and Herb Greene (b. 1929). His work is part of The American School of Architecture, which emerged from the University of Oklahoma in the postwar period and is exemplified by its emphasis on individual creativity and experimentation. Vollendorf’s work is inspired by the natural landscape and a focus on a deep connection between the inside and out. 

While in Oklahoma, Vollendorf designed many homes and inspired countless students. He was an outspoken mentor who encouraged others to see the beauty and inspirations of natural objects and essential life experiences. For example, heavily influenced by music, Vollendorf once told his life-long friend Gary McCowan “to stop looking for architectural influences and go to a concert” (Hicks, Telesis 2019, p. 29). Vollendorf’s dedication, passion, and unique ability to create imaginative architecture that harmonizes with nature is perhaps why his work is so exciting to experience. 

Vollendorf in Oklahoma: The Architecture of Dean Bryant Vollendorf brings together highlights from Vollendorf’s work in Oklahoma through photographs, architectural drawings, magazine articles, press clippings, and quotes from current homeowners to showcase his extraordinary artistic innovations. In all, seven Oklahoma projects are displayed: the Jischke Residence, the Holbert Residence, the Kelsey Residence, the Nations Residence, the Bernstein Residence (listed on the National Register of Historic Places), String City Searches, and Vollendorf’s personal home known as “Mustang.” This exhibition showcases how  Vollendorf extended the American School legacy of architecture that inspires designers to this day.

The exhibition is curated by Dr. Meredith Worthen with support from Dr. Angela Person and Ellie Burdette, a fifth-year architecture student. It is made possible with support from the University of Oklahoma Libraries, the Oklahoma Historical Society, and the American School of Architecture Strategic Priorities Fund.

Image credits: The featured image is a perspective rendering of the Jischke Residence, designed by Vollendorf, ca. 1971, available courtesy of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The second image is a perspective rendering of a ranch home hear Norman, Oklahoma, 1989, available courtesy of the American School Archives at the University of Oklahoma Libraries.