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Architecture

The Marty Leonard Chapel was designed by the world famous E. Fay Jones. Jones described his Chapel design as an instrument for nature to play its music, and--by the way the light and shadows move and change--he had tuned it so that the music changes throughout the day and year. The interior of the Chapel inspires and fulfills the goal of Jones' design - that visitors will "think their loftiest and best thoughts."

Although Jones had designed internationally acclaimed chapels, as well as homes for famous clients, he seemed astonished when his name -- or his work -- was recognized, since he never had aspirations to be well known. Few modern-day architects, however, have received the praise and respect this man has received. Born and raised in Arkansas, Jones expressed his creativity as a youngster by building tree houses in the back yard. He says his course in life was set at a young age when he saw a movie matinee feature about a building designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who in story-book fashion, later became a mentor.
After completing his education at the University of Arkansas and Rice University, Jones served his apprenticeship with Wright. His professional career had been a combination of private practice and teaching at the University of Arkansas, where he served as chair of the Department of Architecture and dean of the School of Architecture.

In 1990 Jones was the 48th recipient of the American Institute of Architect's most prestigious award, the Gold Medal, presented to him by President George Bush. Jones' Leonard Chapel gives Fort Worth the distinction of having structures designed by six Gold Medal winners -- including Philip Johnson, Louis Kahn and I.M. Pei.

Fay Jones died at his home in Fayetteville Arkansas on August 30, 2004. On April 4, 2009, the School of Architecture at the University of Arkansas was named in his honor.