In April, Warren was invited to speak at a local gathering that was part of a global event, PechaKucha Day: Inspire Japan.  The Japanese word “pechukucha” means something like “chit chat” in English.  PechaKucha nights have been happening around the world since the first event took place in Tokyo back in 2003.  It’s a pretty clever format: architects and other creative people are invited to show 20 images of their choosing on any topic for 20 seconds each; the images forward automatically on a large screen while the speaker tries to keep pace.  At the Salt Lake event, Warren was one of a half dozen or so presenters that included a professor from the U, an environmental artist, a furniture designer and others.

The global event served as a fundraiser for reconstruction efforts following the recent devastating earthquake and tsunami  in the Sendai region, with proceeds going to Architecture for Humanity and ArchiAid.  Warren was happy to participate in Salt Lake City’s event because of the 5+ years he spent in Japan as a volunteer, a student and an architect.  He has a genuine love for and interest in all things Japanese.  In the mid-90s, we lived about an hour outside of Sendai where Warren worked for the Shelter company, a design-build firm specializing in large-scale timber structures.  Warren has long been inspired by Japanese architecture, as he explains in his 20 x 20 presentation:

Global PechaKucha Day – SLC – Warren Lloyd from PechaKucha Night Salt Lake City.

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