June 8, 2007

Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesen East

As we worked our way up through the beautiful area of Spring Green, Wisconsin there was little doubt as to why Mr Wright returned to this family property to build his summer home. Of all the areas we passed through on the drive up to Duluth, Kim & I agreed that this spot was stunningly beautiful, as seen in this short taken fron the top balcony of the house.

There have been many books written about Mr Wright, and tons of info on the internet. We found it very difficult to try to capture his work in photographs, you really need to visit this key site. It's awesome in today's world of architecture, and unimaginable as to the impact it had on fellow architects and folks back in the forties!

Our introduction to the site began in the Visitor's Center, which is housed in a resturant building that Mr Wright started, but never opened. Thank goodness this work of art was preserved and not torn down, since it never was functional!


As, most of Wright's works, every detail was addressed, from visual delight when approaching, to the vertical drops at th rear of the building...
and of course, the fabulous open interior!

As we gazed out on the scenic panoramic views along the Wisconsin River, we made a pledge to come back and paddle this on a future trip. What an introduction!

The setting also includes many other buildings and houses that Wright design & built for the family. Our tour included the school and his home. The home originally served as the school, but as student numbers grew, Wright created an entire facility for this purpose. Amoung the many features that impressed us were the main meeting center, and the site landmark - the Romeo & Juliet windmill.


Moving to his home, one could not help but feel you were in a fabulous resort! Set within a large hill, it's sprawling low-set multiple roof lines seemed to blend harmoniously into nature.


No photos were allowed within the house, but no amount of pictures can covey the uniqueness of design and striking beauty of Wright's work here. Our tourguide (who actually grew up on the "farm") recomended this book at of the hundred's written on the man and his work. Be careful, it's hard to put down once started!

We also plan to visit his most famous creation, Fallingwater, when in PA. http://www.paconserve.org/fw-building.asp

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