Rethinking Frank Lloyd Wright: History, Reception, Preservation

Frank Lloyd Wright is a well-known American architect of the 20th century, but his profile in academic and professional circles is less visible. Rethinking Frank Lloyd Wright, edited by Neil Levine and Richard Longstreth, examines how Wright continues to influence domestic and international architecture, challenging his popular and professional reputations. The book is prompted by the transfer of Wright's archive from Taliesin West to Columbia University and the Museum of Modern Art.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2023
Publisher: University of Virginia Press

Frank Lloyd Wright, the renowned American architect of the 20th century, continues to hold a prominent position among the general public, while his significance in academic and professional circles remains relatively obscure. In their book, Rethinking Frank Lloyd Wright, Neil Levine and Richard Longstreth have assembled a distinguished panel of scholars to explore this intriguing paradox. Through a series of engaging and visually captivating essays, the contributors shed light on Wright's enduring influence in both domestic and international realms, advocating for a reevaluation of his popular and professional reputations. This volume, sparked by the relocation of Wright's archive from Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona, to the Avery Library at Columbia University and the Museum of Modern Art, serves as a timely revisit of Wright's relevance for a contemporary audience.

Contributors to this volume include Barry Bergdoll, Columbia University; Daniel Bluestone, Boston University; Jean-Louis Cohen, New York University; Cammie McAtee, independent scholar; Neil Levine, Harvard University; Dietrich Neumann, Brown University; Timothy M. Rohan, University of Massachusetts Amherst; Richard Longstreth, George Washington University; Jack Quinan, University at Buffalo; and Alice Thomine-Berrada, École des Beaux-Arts.

The book delves into various aspects of Wright's career, examining his architectural designs, philosophical ideas, and societal impact. The contributors analyze his contributions to modern architecture, highlighting his innovative approaches and his influence on subsequent generations of architects. They also explore Wright's role as a cultural figure, examining his impact on art, literature, and popular culture.

One of the key themes of the book is Wright's ability to bridge the gap between art and architecture. The contributors argue that Wright's designs, characterized by their organic forms and integration with the natural environment, transcended the boundaries of traditional architectural practice. They explore how Wright's philosophy of organic architecture influenced his approach to design, emphasizing the importance of harmony, balance, and the seamless integration of the built and natural worlds.

Another important aspect of the book is Wright's influence on domestic architecture. The contributors examine his residential designs, including the Falling Water and Taliesin West, and discuss how they exemplified his vision of a home that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They analyze Wright's use of natural light, space, and materials to create spaces that were both comfortable and inspiring.

In addition to his domestic designs, Wright's international projects also receive significant attention. The contributors explore his work in Japan, where he designed the Tama Art University and the Ujina Residence, and discuss how his designs reflected the unique cultural and environmental context of the region. They also examine Wright's influence on architectural education, highlighting his role as a teacher and mentor to many prominent architects of the 20th century.

Throughout the book, the contributors draw on a wealth of primary sources, including Wright's writings, architectural drawings, and photographs, to provide a comprehensive and detailed account of his career. The illustrations, which include both contemporary photographs and archival images, enhance the reader's understanding of Wright's designs and their impact on the surrounding environment.

Rethinking Frank Lloyd Wright is a valuable contribution to the study of architecture and design. By exploring Wright's paradoxical career and highlighting his enduring influence, the book encourages readers to reevaluate his popular and professional reputations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of architects who have shaped the built environment and influenced the cultural landscape of our times.

Dimension: 229 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813947693