Do the Wright Thing

"Art for art's sake is a philosophy of the well-fed."  -Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright 

In Frank Lloyd Wright's lifetime, he wore a conglomerate of hats, exuding that of simplistic elegance, deep rooted imagination, and true originality.  He was first and foremost, a renowned architect and interior designer, even being deemed "the greatest architect of all time".  His creative energy and classic lines within his work, are not only inspirational to his buildings and pieces, but to the fashion world as a whole.  

Kaufmann House

Wright was also a renowned author, describing his dreams of building cities within a natural landscape in the pages of " The Living City".  In this text, Wright proposed a positive solution to that of the overcrowded and overbearing city by placing various buildings throughout a spacious environment, emphasizing the natural environment.  

Sketch of "The Living City"

Today, I had the GREAT privilege of heading down to the MAM and getting to see Wright's masterpieces firsthand.  Unfortunately,  I was unable to take pictures due to copyright issues, however, I did include some MUST SEES.  I picked my three favorite pieces, which I think EVERYONE should pay special attention upon visitation to really get a true taste of Wrights genius.  

1. Herbert F. Johnson House, "Wingspread" 1937-1939, Wind Point Wisconsin 

The MAM shows the original presentation drawings in graphite pencil and colored pencil on tracing paper.  It also shows an AMAZING model of the building complete with an indoor view.  Overall, it had to be my favorite piece in the collection because of the outstanding use of simplistic elements and creativity.  

Wingspread

Wingspread

2. Raul Bailleres House, Unbuilt, 1952, Mexico

This piece, which was never constructed, shows intricate imagination and design. It truly catches the eye with its curvature shaped roof and stunning landscape.  I don't know about you, but this is one vacation home I wouldn't want to leave.

FLW Sketch of Unbuilt House

3. The Living City, Unbuilt, Derived from Wright's 1958 book "The Living City"

The Living City is beatific to say the least.  MAM did a great job on the exhibit displaying a model made of plywood, basswood, plexiglass foam, and wood veneer.  The model shows a utopia city, incorporating beautiful buildings and the natural world.  Overall, it was a great scene to gaze upon.

The Living City

Overall, Frank Lloyd Wright's exhibit was creatively nurturing.  It really inspired me to continue with my artwork on canvas, in song, and in writing.  Wright's stunning genius and eye for beauty is truly an inspiration.  Although he has passed, his passion for originality lives on through his work. I hope you will all take time out of your busy schedules to be INSPIRED.  Inspired by the works of our past, inspired by innovation, and inspired by ART, for without it, we would all see but darkness.  

"An idea is salvation by imagination".-Frank Lloyd Wright