Power of Place

Participants reflected on the power of place as they discussed destinations that warrant global pilgrimages, including natural destinations, such as Mount Katahdin, landscapes, and architectural destinations including restaurants, modern homes and temples. The visceral experiences that engage the senses in a personal and powerful way – light, sound, view, scale – were described by all. Many descriptions demonstrated the power of place as a spiritual experience, allowing a connection to the universal. Powerful places inspire, promote knowledge and serve humanity.

What are the preservation challenges for saving these places and the powerful experiences they offer? Crowds, overuse, limited access and time, and lack of opportunities for private and personal reflection are impediments for experiencing and appreciating great destinations. Participants discussed the common conflict between access and preservation and the challenge many destinations have to establish a balance. They discussed the misrepresentation of places when they are documented by photography as trophies, separate from their contexts. As an example, first time visitors to the Glass House are usually familiar with the “iconic” image of the modern glass, steel and brick structure. It is a revelation when they actually experience the site and the building in context -- a choreographed sensory experience weaving together landscape, architecture and art. A direct experience with nature is the foundation of Philip Johnson’s creative vision and the power of the place.

What are the opportunities and strategies for engaging people in places, so that ordinary and extraordinary places can become powerful and transformative? Authentic engagement that fosters personal connection, reflection and meaning will lead to a new generation of stewards who will preserve the power of place.