Modernism Week Discovery: Walter S White

Walter S White – Modernism Week Discoveries

73271 Buckboard Trail, Palm Desert Photo George Gutenberg
Photo George Gutenberg

As we suit up for MW 2017 to learn more about this genre, it might be good to recall that we’ve learned a lot in the past.

One such discovery at MW 2016 was the little-known Mid-Century Modern architect Walter S White who did memorable structures from Palm Springs to Indio, as well as work in Colorado and Los Angeles. He was first introduced to us in a blog by Professor Volker M. Welter, in 2015, who later did a lecture on the architect at MW 2016.

Professor Welter also authored “Projects and Inventions in Architecture”, published by the Art, Design and Architecture, UCSB.  This book provides a thorough review of his work and working life with details, background, drawings, locations and photographs. It can be ordered here. Thus the architect has been moved from being little known to well recognized.

Clicking here will show a map developed by Prof.  Welter showing his known and suspected projects. Continue reading “Modernism Week Discovery: Walter S White”

PST! There’s Still Time to Experience Pacific Standard Time: Modern Architecture

PSTP-Banner-combo2400x1696 (3)Pacific Standard Time Presents: Modern Architecture in L.A., a scaled down sequel to the first Getty initiative in 2011, is underway in Los Angeles and environs.  The current initiative celebrates Southern California’s immense impact on modern architecture with exhibitions and programs by 17 cultural institutions now through July, 2013.

Events are scattered across the city from construction sites to the Schindler House, and from Pasadena to Santa Barbara.

Just opened May 9, Everything Loose will Land, an installment at the MAK Center for Art and Architecture at the Schindler House, makes light of Frank Lloyd Wright’s infamous dig: “Tip the world over on its side and everything loose will land in Los Angeles.”  In the 1970s, boundaries between L.A.  artists and architects blurred, leading to unprecedented collaborations and innovations. Function and form ceased to be distinct in this exhibit that unites PST’s emphasis on architecture and visual design. Continue reading “PST! There’s Still Time to Experience Pacific Standard Time: Modern Architecture”

The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands Is a Time Capsule of Past and Future

Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage was the winter home of former US Ambassadors, entrepreneurs and philanthropists Walter and Lenore Annenberg.

Designed by iconic Southern California architect A. Quincy Jones, the 22,500 square foot Mid Century Modern home, completed in 1966, served as an unofficial center for world leaders, US presidents, politicians and celebrities, who were frequent guests of the Annenbergs for more than 40 years.

Situated in the middle of 200 acres of landscaped grounds and a private golf course, all surrounded by pink block walls, anticipation of seeing the magnificent Aztec-inspired glass and stone estate builds as you drive up the winding road to the summit. Continue reading “The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands Is a Time Capsule of Past and Future”

Mid Century Design Continues to Influence Today’s Art and Fashion

Art and fashion of the 1960s continues to deeply influence today’s art trends.

The Galen
The Galen – Palm Springs Art Museum at Palm Desert

Recent events and exhibits at the Palm Springs Art Museum underscore that influence when a 60s-themed opening party topped more than 800 guests for The Galen and Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden in Palm Desert.

Images from the 60’s themed party are on the museum’s web site at www.psmuseum.org Continue reading “Mid Century Design Continues to Influence Today’s Art and Fashion”

Celebrating the Masters: Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion

Rendering of exterior entry of Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion. Rendering courtesy of Marmol Radziner Architects, FAIA.

Ever since the Palm Springs Art Museum acquired the former Santa Fe Federal Savings and Loan building on Palm Canyon Drive last June, and announced plans to transform the bank into an architecture and design museum, a ground swell of support has been growing.  The concept has also garnered considerable national and media attention. Continue reading “Celebrating the Masters: Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion”

Desert Modernism Reflected in Architect Reuel Young’s Design of Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert

The Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert formally opened to the public March 15, sharing not only a new level of art and culture to the mid- and east valley, but common architectural ties.

The 8,400 square foot building located at Entrada del Paseo, corner of Highway 111 and El Paseo, was formerly the city visitor’s center, designed by acclaimed desert architect Reuel Young.

Built in 2005, Young captures the motifs inherent in Desert Modernism such as its Albert Frey-like sharp winged roof shading an upper terrace and entrance below. From its essentially a circular shape are angled walls that fan out with floor to ceiling glass that offer full views of the outdoors. Continue reading “Desert Modernism Reflected in Architect Reuel Young’s Design of Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert”