SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Jul 7, 2004 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Autodesk, Inc. (Nasdaq: ADSK), the world's leading design software and digital content company, announced today that it will provide major support for the forthcoming exhibition Tools of the Imagination at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Opening in the spring of 2005, the exhibition will examine the tools of design and how they have revolutionized the ways in which the world envisions architecture.

"The National Building Museum is very pleased that Autodesk will be a co-sponsor for the exhibition Tools of the Imagination," said Chase W. Rynd, executive director for the Museum. "It's amazing how much the design process has changed in recent years, thanks to the advent of computer applications such as those produced by Autodesk. We've come a long way from the humble pencil and plain paper."

"We're honored to be asked to participate in this exhibition," said Phil Bernstein, FAIA, vice president of Autodesk's Building Solutions Division, who will also represent Autodesk on the exhibition's advisory board. "Our company's support of this project is a natural expression of our longstanding commitment to the architectural community."

As the Museum curators develop the content for the exhibition, the advisory board will provide them with general guidance and suggest speakers for the associated symposium and lecture series. The advisory board consists of approximately a dozen members, including noted architectural scholars and representatives of other companies that provide software and related products to the design community.

Tools of the Imagination will showcase 200 years of design tools and technologies -- from historic pencils, ink, and drafting equipment to the latest software and hardware, simulations, models, and lasers -- as well as a wide array of drawings, renderings, and sketches from well-known architects. The exhibition will also explore the future of design, examining the dramatic impact of new technologies on how designers create structures, how buildings work, and how people experience them.

About the National Building Museum

The National Building Museum is America's premier cultural institution dedicated to exploring and celebrating architecture, design, engineering, construction, and urban planning. The Museum has become a vital forum for exchanging ideas and information about such topical issues as managing suburban growth, preserving landmarks, and revitalizing urban centers. The Museum is located at 401 F Street NW, Washington, D.C. Museum hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Public inquiries: 202-272-2448 or visit http://www.nbm.org .

About Autodesk

Founded in 1982, Autodesk, Inc., is the world's leading design software and digital content company. Autodesk offers solutions for professionals in building design, geographic information systems, manufacturing, digital media, and wireless data services. By delivering progressive products and services, Autodesk helps customers create, manage, use and maximize the value of their digital data throughout the lifecycle of their projects. For more information about the company, see www.autodesk.com.

NOTE: Autodesk is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

CONTACT: Brian Baker of Autodesk, +1-415-547-2451, or brian.baker@autodesk.com.

SOURCE Autodesk, Inc.

Brian Baker of Autodesk, +1-415-547-2451, or
brian.baker@autodesk.com

http://www.nbm.org