Chance Encounter in the Windy City

I've been a fan of Frank Gehry for a long time. I've been a fan of West Side Story longer. When the two combine, it's magical!

I made a trip to Chicago for an Interior Design leadership conference and had some free time one day, so I decided to walk to Millennium Park from my hotel on Michigan Ave. It was a bit farther than I thought, but what I encountered there was well worth the blisters.

When I first got to the park, I saw the infamous "Bean" and took a photo with me in the reflection. I thought there must be more to the park than that and started to wander around. I heard some music drifting from the innards of the park and felt compelled to follow it - like one of those kids following a pied piper. As I walked up the steps, the clouds parted, the Soprano sang a high C and I came face to face with the Pritzker Pavilion.

Frank Gehry has always been a controversial architect. I agree that his work is more sculptural and expressionistic than classic functional architecture. The sweeping, dramatic curves and grand scale of drama is what makes Gehry's pieces unique.  Some people don't care for this form of artistic gesture, but I find it intriguing. There is nothing quite like experiencing a Gehry for the first time.

I stumbled upon the Pavilion accidentally, a chance encounter in the Windy City. I wasn't even aware of his existence until that moment, and that he was featuring the music of West Side Story was like he knew I would be there. I felt directed by fate.  I was amazed at his ability to exude elegance and machismo at the same time. His grand scale, yet seemingly delicate composition seemed to work so seamlessly.

The curved metal bangs enveloping his smooth wooden interior were playful, yet compulsory. Music needs to flow over a warm, somewhat soft surface like wood, however, the curves help shape and carry the sound for the many spectators gathered to admire his composure in presenting the classic songs.

I was enchanted by the classic songs about struggling in an urban environment and love and the poetic vision of his structure. His elements were raw in form, yet sculpted to highlight the versatility. In a city with many architectural landmarks, he stands out while at the same time complimenting the modern and classical pieces that comprise the landscape. I truly felt inspired in his presence.