Building Community: 2026 Architecture Student Show is on view in the Charles Danforth Gallery at UMA November 5 - December 10, 2026, with an opening reception Thursday, November 5 at 4:00 p.m.

This exhibition presents examples of student investigations spanning all five years of the degree program. In the work shown, gallery visitors can observe growth in various aspects of architecture, from representation and construction to research and design. By scaffolding Architecture students’ education, the program helps them systematically develop their skills in tandem with the increasing complexity of their projects.

UMA’s Bachelor of Architecture program teaches architecture through active engagement. Starting with fundamental design and technical skills, each student progresses to the more complex task of “designing with intention.” The program promotes making and drawing ideas so students gain a clear understanding of what they are proposing. This helps even visionary thinkers realize their concepts in a creative yet practical way.

UMA BArch Mission: Architecture Through Engagement
The UMA Architecture program's mission reflects who they are: SMALL... INTEGRATED... HANDS-ON. This essentially means they focus on people: students, faculty, and community partners. The faculty at UMA teach architecture through engagement, educating and empowering students to explore, investigate, and analyze the built environment. Engagement actively connects students with each other, their coursework, and their community partners. The UMA Architecture program's goal is to prepare students effectively for their professional careers, where they will have both the opportunity and responsibility to influence change in our shared built environment.

This current exhibition offers insight into the education, exploration, investigation, and development of future architects in Maine.