Aqua Tower architect Jeanne Gang wins $500,000 MacArthur ‘genius’ grant

Aqua Tower architect Jeanne Gang wins $500,000 MacArthur ‘genius’ grant
Flickr/TheGoatIsBad
Aqua Tower architect Jeanne Gang wins $500,000 MacArthur ‘genius’ grant
Flickr/TheGoatIsBad

Aqua Tower architect Jeanne Gang wins $500,000 MacArthur ‘genius’ grant

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Chicago architect Jeanne Gang is among 22 MacArthur Foundation fellows, the Chicago-based John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur foundation announced today.

As a MacArthur fellow, Gang, whose firm Studio Gang Architects designed the 82-story Aqua Tower at Columbus near Randolph among other works, will receive $500,000 - no strings attached - over the next five years. Informally dubbed the “genius grant,” the foundation has awarded individuals with exceptional creativity and promise. Gang was cited for “integrating conventional materials, bold yet functional designs, and ecological technology in a wide range of striking structures.” The announcement came shortly after 11pm Monday.

The full list of winners is here.