Rethinking Nature and Landscape in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonia

Anna Andrzejewski, professor of architectural history at University of Wisconsin–Madison, presents an exploration of Frank Lloyd Wright’s professed deep reverence for nature and his practice of reshaping—and sometimes dramatically altering—the natural world to meet his architectural vision.

While inspired by transcendentalist thinkers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Wright often introduced non-native trees, shrubs, and other plantings, especially evident in the landscapes of his Usonian houses, that seem at odds with contemporary ideas on ecological restoration. In her talk, Andrzejewski suggests Wright’s approach is best understood through the lens of early and mid-twentieth century conservation, an ethos that emphasized the active management and improvement of the environment. Learning to understand Wright within this historical context can not only provide deeper insight into the architect’s work but can better inform restoration and preservation at Wright sites today.

About the Speaker

Anna Andrzejewski serves as the Frank Lloyd Wright Professor of Modern American Architecture at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she regularly teaches a popular course on Frank Lloyd Wright, taking students into Wright’s buildings in and around Madison to learn about the architect’s work directly. Her expertise lies in post-World War II architecture and cultural landscapes, particularly in American suburbs. Her forthcoming book focuses on builder Marshall Erdman, who worked closely with Wright in the last decade of the architect’s life.

Tickets

Tickets cost $10/general public and $8/Indiana Landmarks members with advance registration required. Purchase using the form below or visit FLWLandscapeTalk.eventbrite.com.

The program begins at 6 p.m. at Thomas Duncan Hall, 619 Ferry St, Lafayette (which is accessible to all), or online via Zoom.