Talk To Explore Architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Work, With Focus On Indiana Home
In anticipation of reopening a newly restored Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home in West Lafayette, Indiana Landmarks is hosting a talk about the great American architect and the challenges of preserving his creations.
As America emerged from the Great Depression in the 1930s, architect Frank Lloyd Wright saw an emerging need for well-designed, affordable housing for the middle class. From then until his passing in 1959, Wright designed a uniquely American brand of architecture that he coined as “Usonian,” a shorthand way to say “United States of North America.”
On March 29, Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy Executive Director Barbara Gordon will headline the talk and provide an in-depth look into the philosophy and restoration challenges surrounding Wright’s Usonian architecture. Gordon has been in her position since 2017 and prior to that spent 21 years at the Chicago Architecture Foundation.
The John and Catherine Christian House completed in 1956 in West Lafayette represents one of Wright’s most fully realized Usonian designs. Suzanne Stanis, Vice President of Education at Indiana Landmarks, will discuss Samara, the National Historic Landmark that’s undergone a $2 million restoration.
Named for winged seeds produced by the site’s evergreens, Samara features an abstract version of the winged seed design motif in the interior and exterior of the house. Because the Christians consistently adhered to Wright’s prescribed concepts and were the home’s sole owners, Samara offers a rare comprehensive example of the famous architect’s work, which advised on the selection of china and textiles and created specific furniture pieces.
Today, Indiana Landmarks co-stewards Samara with the John E. Christian Family Memorial Trust. Samara will reopen in April with tours offered on a regular basis for the first time, rather than by appointment. Tour tickets go on sale March 20 at www.samara-house.org).
The talk is $10 for the public and free for Indiana Landmarks members. All tickets are general admission. Reserve your spot at wrightusoniantalk23.eventbrite.com, or by calling 317-639-4534.
WHAT: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian Vision talk
WHEN: March 29 at 6 p.m.
WHERE: Indiana Landmarks Center, Grand Hall, 1201 Central Ave., Indianapolis, and online via Zoom
COST: $10; free for Indiana Landmarks members
RSVP: Purchase tickets by visiting wrightusoniantalk23.eventbrite.com, or by calling 317-639-4534.