The OCAD University community is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Joan Burt, past Chair of the Department of Design at the Ontario College of Art. She passed away peacefully in her home on March 10, 2021.
At the time of her passing, she was the oldest licensed woman architect in Ontario and was documented in the book, For The Record: The First Women in Canadian Architecture (Dundurn Press).
Burt was Chair of the Department of Design at the Ontario College of Art (now OCAD U) spanning two decades, developing programs in environmental design, ceramics, textiles, printmaking and glass.
The focus of her life's work was the design and creation of buildings and interiors within the framework of private practice. Intuitive and contemporary, her work included restoration, renovations and additions, new construction, architectural interiors as well as planning and development. Her clients appreciated her creative and thorough approach and every detail, however small, would be anticipated and resolved.
In 2008, Burt’s friend Lillian Overs established the Joan Burt Architect Award in her honour. One award of $5,000 is given annually to a student whose major thesis project in Interior Design, and $5,000 is awarded annually to a student in Environmental Design, including Interior Design projects.
A private service has been held and a celebration of Burt's life will take place at a later date.
Source: Globe and Mail