The Bottom Line
- Presents a different perspective of Frank Lloyd Wright and his work
- Attractive, glossy photos
- This book is small and short--70 pages includes photos
Description
- Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona is 72 pages (including appendix), with 50 glossy photos. It's a quick read.
- The author, Lawrence W. Cheek, is an architecture critic who lived in Arizona for many years.
- Although FLW's local architectural impacts are noted, this book is really about his love and relationship with Arizona.
Guide Review - Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona
No account of Frank Lloyd Wright's life, loves, art or architecture portrays an entirely enchanting image of the man. Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona is no different.
The author confirms what we all know--that Frank Lloyd Wright was a genius, but not always loved or admired. Frank Lloyd Wright had a long life filled with passion for his unique style of architecture.
The attraction of this book lies in its concentration on the Arizona connection. When Frank Lloyd Wright came to Arizona, he found a canvas on which he could paint his vision of architecture becoming one with its environment. In the case of Arizona, it was a landscape relatively unspoiled. In Arizona, "...Wright's architecture became--if not necessarily more beautiful--more daring, more exuberant than ever."
I am not a student of architecture, but I've visited Taliesin West and read several pieces about Frank Lloyd Wright's influence here. I learned more tidbits from this account--the entire book is almost an anecdote--presented by Mr. Cheeks.
The lovely photographs succeed--they enhance the narrative. Many of these I had not seen before. On the occasion when I turned the page and there was not photograph, I was disappointed!
So, it's a picture book, an anecdote, a glimpse into how Arizona changed Frank Lloyd Wright and how Frank Lloyd Wright changed Arizona.
The diminutive size and length of the book might lead someone to believe that it's a children's' book. It is not. It would make a pleasant addition to an Arizona library or Frank Lloyd Wright library shelf.
Kudos to the publisher for having an illustrated book cover and back, even when the book jacket is removed!
