We might not all major in architecture but we are all touched by it, and it’s argued that Frank Lloyd Wright has had more impact than most on buildings in both the 20th and 21st centuries.
Frank Lloyd Wright introduced the word ‘organic’ into his vision of building, and indeed he did this as far back as the early 20th century. Although the word ‘organic’ now refers to something which has the soft lines of animals or plants, Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic architecture represents another element. He does not mimic nature but, rather, considers nature’s characteristics. Lloyd Wright looks at the location and builds to create a marriage between constructed forms and natural setting.
Throughout his 70-year career, Frank Lloyd Wright published articles and books and gave lectures. The philosophy of his organic architecture was that architecture should be a partnership of its site and its time, and should never impose a style for the sake of it.
In May 1939, Lloyd Wright visited London and gave four lectures at the Royal Institute of British Architects. The lectures were published as ‘An Organic Architecture’ in September 1939 by Lund Humphries. The book represents the design philosophy for which he is so celebrated. This new edition commemorates the 150th anniversary of Frank Lloyd Wright’s birth.
The text covers a range of topics including his Usonian houses, his visions for the future of cities both in North America and elsewhere, particularly in Britain, Taliesin and the Johnson Waxworks factory. More importantly we are introduced to the man through his words and his passion.
Author: Frank Lloyd Wright
Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd
Price: £20
ISBN-10: 1848222327
ISBN-13: 978-1848222328
Art book review by Chrissie Walker © 2018