David’s Island, Strategic Plot

Perry Kulper is a visionary architect and educator known for redefining architectural drawing and design. He is currently a Professor of Architecture at the University of Michigan’s Taubman College and previously taught at SCI-Arc for 17 years, with visiting roles at the University of Pennsylvania and Arizona State University. His career has been shaped by working with some of the most influential architects, including Robert Venturi of Venturi, Rauch & Scott Brown, Peter Eisenman of Eisenman/ Robertson, and Robert A.M. Stern.

What sets Kulper apart is his approach to architecture—not just as the design of buildings, but as a way of thinking, imagining, and communicating ideas. Through intricate drawings, he layers maps, symbols, and unexpected elements to explore new ways of conceptualizing space. His influence extends beyond traditional architecture, inspiring designers, artists, and thinkers who are interested in how visual language shapes creative possibilities. His work has been exhibited and studied worldwide, making him a key figure in architectural innovation.

In 2013, he co-authored Pamphlet Architecture 34: Fathoming the Unfathomable with longtime collaborator Nat Chard, a book that challenges conventional methods of architectural representation. They are currently working on a new publication for UCL Press. He was also the Sir Banister Fletcher Visiting Professor at The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, from 2018 to 2019.

Recently he optimistically ventured into the digital world attempting to get a handle on ‘cut + paste’ and ‘magic wand’ operations in Photoshop—as a result he encountered one of his steeper learning curves. Even more recently he has also been snooping around under the hood of said digital realms and thinking about Google Earth. Fantastic beasts continue to be on his mind.