Tyler alum Marguerite Anglin's (BSArch '01) path from architecture student to the Public Art Director at Creative Philadelphia, the city’s office for arts and culture, showcases the power of interdisciplinary thinking and the lasting impact of the strong educational foundation that Tyler provides.    

Anglin's journey into architecture wasn't a straightforward one. Initially interested in fashion design, she was steered toward more technical fields by her parents. At a summer camp for business and engineering, a counselor introduced Anglin to architecture – a discipline that balanced her creative and analytical sides perfectly. 

Diving into Architecture at Tyler 

At Tyler, Anglin immersed herself in the architecture program. 

“When I was in school, I was cultivating a passion for architecture and what I was creating. That creative process sometimes took you into the late hours of the night,” she recalled with a laugh. “I see myself doing that now, even in my own art practice.”  

These experiences instilled in Anglin valuable time management skills and a strong work ethic. She learned to maintain her passion for creativity amid competing demands – a skill that continues to serve her well in her current work. 

Building Community 

Anglin also stresses the importance of the community she built while a student.  

"Something that really helped me get through school was the community that we created," she said. This tight-knit group provided support during challenging times and held each other accountable. 

This emphasis on community extended into Anglin's professional life, where she continued to seek and build networks. Her involvement with the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (PhilaNOMA), where she served as a local chapter president, developed leadership skills that weren't available in her early career roles. 

“Extracurricular activities, and opportunities to network and build community in your field are extremely important in college and beyond,” Anglin emphasized.

The Power of Interdisciplinary Creativity 

After graduating, Anglin worked as an architect for about 12 years before rediscovering her passion for art. She began drawing out her prayers and painting during church services, reigniting her desire for more artistic expression. It would take another eight years before Anglin pivoted her architecture career to public art. 
  
Today, as Public Art Director at Creative Philadelphia, Anglin oversees the city's public art programs. The role encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, from managing the city's vast public art collection of over 1,000 works to overseeing new commissions through the Percent for Art program. 

Anglin collaborates closely with artists, architects, design teams, and community members to integrate art into municipal construction projects that reflects community voices. She also runs professional development programs for emerging artists, helping them scale their work and manage projects. 

Anglin's education and experience enabled her to understand both the creative vision and the technical aspects of installing artwork in public spaces. 

"My background helps me speak the language of both artists and designers, bridging these worlds in a way that's crucial for public art projects," she said. "Being an artist and an architect is something that I use every single day."

Advice for Current Students 

Anglin's journey offers valuable insights for current students. She advises staying open to diverse opportunities and not being afraid of trying new things.  

“Don’t allow yourself to be pigeonholed. If you’re in a job where you feel that way, don’t be afraid to continue exploring,” she said. "I would have never thought that I’d get my architecture degree and discover that wow, I'm leaning a bit more toward art, but I still love architecture. I found a position that allows me to flex both of those, and that heavily utilizes both backgrounds." 

  
Personal Artistic Practice 

Beyond her professional role, Anglin maintains a personal art practice. She describes her current schedule as "nine to five, five to nine," referring to the time allocated for job and her studio work. 

Her paintings, often featuring skies, clouds, and children, encourage a sense of playfulness and wonder. This perspective informs both her personal art and her approach to public art in Philadelphia.  
 
Anglin's story highlights the importance of staying open to possibilities, taking risks, building community, and exploration. As the city’s public spaces continue to be enriched by art under her leadership, her professional and creative achievements underscore the enduring impact of the discipline and creativity fostered by her Tyler education. 

Image courtesy of artist.