Richard Haas – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

New York Stories

Art in the Heart of New York

by Chrissy Biello

On day two in New York, we woke full of hope and to clear blue skies…

…albeit with a pronounced chill in the air.

Despite the cold, we were ready to explore the city on foot–not, perhaps, expecting to get in more than 30,000 steps while visiting four museums and two libraries!

With a busy schedule for the day, we hoped to experience all that was possible, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

Although these museums host art from myriad genres and movements, we focused on three primary areas: American, European, and Modern/Contemporary, finding that this was more than enough to keep us busy over a long day while also expanding our knowledge of the arts.

American

With us bringing different levels of knowledge about art to the trip, there was something for everyone to enjoy–and learn about–among the Museums’ many collections. Speaking for myself, I had many opportunities for learning, and my first such experience of the day involved coming across Early Sunday Morning, by Edward Hopper, at The Whitney.

The American collections had many great pieces, showcasing the depth and diversity of American art. Edward Hopper’s Early Sunday Morning (Whitney) drew me in…

“Early Sunday Morning,” by Edward Hopper

…which was perhaps appropriate, inasmuch as Hopper was born near New York, and he died in Manhattan, not far from where we were seeing his work. This particular piece, I learned, reflected his most commonly emphasized colors (red, yellow, blue, green), as well as the sense of loneliness and isolation that so often characterizes his art.

The museums also showcased Thomas Hart Benton, one of Professor Yawn’s favorite artists. His piece The Lord is my Shepherd (Whitney), Cotton Pickers (The Met), and America Today (The Met), highlighted the regionalist style, while also showcasing Benton’s sense of artistic rhythm.

The representation of African American artists was particularly moving, including Jacob Lawrence’s emotionally charged War Series, which captured collective anxiety…

…and Horace Pippin’s compelling Cabin in the Cotton (Whitney).

We should also mention a work of art in its own (W)right: The Guggenheim Museum. Although all of us appreciate Frank Lloyd Wright’s work none of us had been inside one of the last major architectural works of Wright’s story career, In addition to scoping out the art around the walls and alcoves, we also spent much time simply looking at the interior from various angles and perspectives. Beyond the many genres of art we had a chance to experience, we added to this list American architecture.

European

The European collections presented numerous memorable works. One of the day’s highlights was getting a selfie with Vincent van Gogh’s Self Portrait with a Straw Hat (The Met) and seeing a study of Georges Seurat’s magnificent A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (The Met). Other notable works included John Singer Sargent’s Wyndham Sisters (The Met) and Renoir’s Woman with Parakeet (Guggenheim).

Moreover, I was particularly excited to see more pieces by Edgar Degas, especially after seeing a copy of his famous sculpture Little Dancer of Fourteen Years outside the Degas House in New Orleans. One that I was fond of is his Dancer Moving Forward (Guggenheim) sculpture.

Modern

The modern collections sparked much reminiscence and contemplation. Georgia O’Keeffe’s Ladder to the Moon (Whitney) initially made our group think of Leandro Erlich’s Too Late for Help piece in the New Orleans Museum of Art Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and it was a different look than what we were used to seeing from Ms. O’Keeffe.

And, Keith Haring’s Untitled 1981 piece (Whitney) was enjoyed by everyone and left us thinking of his other known works.

Further, we discovered interesting connections, like learning that Mark Rothko’s Number 10 (MoMA) was donated by Phillip Johnson, whose architectural work we had admired at University of Saint Thomas Cathedral in Houston, the PPG building in Pittsburgh, and the Water Gardens in Fort Worth!

Rene Magritte’s The Lovers (MoMA) particularly excited Olivia, while Salvador Dali’s The Persistence of Memory (MoMA) proved even more captivating in person than in reproductions.

Jackson Pollock’s One: Number 31 (MoMA) captivated us with its scale and abstract expressionist techniques. And, seeing Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night (MoMA) in person was a treat, a piece Olivia and I had long hoped to experience!

Seeing art from these diverse categories has helped structure my understanding. As I learn more about art, it becomes enjoyable to identify artists before reading the placards. I hope to develop this skill further, aspiring to reach the expertise level of Stephanie, Professor Yawn, and Olivia!

NY Stroll

Walking to four art museums allows for quite a lot of site-seeing, and we tried too make most of our journeys on foot. We began by hoping to photograph the Statue of Liberty, but we were foiled by New York’s never-ending construction. The Statue of Liberty was visible only by boat or through a window, and we only had time for the latter–definitely not the photo we hoped for.

As if to compensate, we had an unexpected photo opportunity, when we all witnessed what Olivia described as “the most New York thing I’ve ever seen”–a squirrel eating a bagel.

We also made our way past the “Charging Bull”, which judging by the sides of the crowds, was probably one of the most popular sites in NYC.

Nearby, we saw the statue of the defiant and vigilant girl, who keeps watch on the New York Stock Exchange.

Because this trip was designed for us to see the presidential inauguration, we also stopped by “Again”, the Federal Hall, to get another and better photo of the George Washington Statue. This significant site was witness to the first ever presidential inauguration and, later, to the writing of the Bill of Rights.

Probably the biggest treat for us was visiting the grand New York Public Library. We stopped for a selfie here, named after the two famous lions who stand guard to the front of the building.

One of these lions is named Patience; one is named Fortitude. No one, it seems, knows which is which, and because they are identical, we’re not sure it matters. Inside the NY Public Library, we visited the periodical reading room, which features 13 murals by Richard Haas. After some negotiation with the paid staff, we were allowed to take a few pictures. Haas, of course, has done 15 murals in our adopted hometown of Huntsville, Texas. Interestingly, New York has the most interior murals of Richard Haas, while Huntsville has the most exterior murals of his in any city in the world. Not to brag, or anything. (Thank you Linda Pease.)

Of course, we had to stop into the nearby Grand Central Station, which we found to be beautiful.

Chrissy also found the “whispering wall,” where a vocalization on one corner will transmit to the other corner, with those in between none the wiser.

All of the above occurred fairly early in our 15 hour day. Our trip back to the hotel, however, was at the end of the day through Times Square, which Chrissy regarded as a special hell on Earth. Having walked more that 30,000 steps, Chrissy’s ankles were literally bleeding, and her misery quickly became ours.

In fairness, Times Square is a bit much, even by American standards. After spending the day reviewing the classics of art, it was a bit jarring to be amidst the gawkers, wannabe influencers, and loiterers. This, combined with the loud sounds and bright, multicolored lights, provided more than enough stimulation for everyone.

Amidst this chaos, we found Hope, literally. In 2008, Robert Indian transformed his classic LOVE sculpture into a HOPE sculpture, reflecting one of President Obama’s campaign messages. As Robert Indiana fans, we paused for a selfie, and in our head tallied up how many said large scale sculptures we have seen. Chrissy, 2; Olivia 4. And on this optimistic note, we wrapped up day two of our five-day democracy tour.

An Afternoon in the Big Apple

The Sidewalks of New York

by Chrissy Biello

On our first day in New York City, we decided it would be a good idea to explore the area and familiarize ourselves with the surroundings, including the subway system. It turned out to be a great decision, as we encountered many fascinating and exciting sights along the way!

As we began walking through the city, Professor Yawn noticed our proximity to the historic Prince Street. Along this notable street stands the first Richard Haas mural, which Olivia enthusiastically recognized and pointed out as we approached.

The mural, gracing 112 Prince Street since 1974, features intricate details that have been thoughtfully added over the years. But even as an early work, it reflects Haas’s artistic and architectural sensibilities, as well as his ability to transform a space through art.

Haas, who lives in New York, once spent a summer working for Frank Lloyd Wright, before embarking on a successful career as what the New York Times referred to as an “urbanologist.”

Thanks to the work of Linda Pease, Haas brought his Urbanology to Huntsville, TX, where he has completed 15 exterior murals–the most of any city. Thus, despite being strangers in the strange land of New York City, we felt oddly at home.

Continuing our walk, Chinatown emerged as a fascinating destination; its narrow streets offered an authentic glimpse into this vibrant New York neighborhood.

To our delight, we found the New York City Hall, a magnificent French Renaissance Revival structure still bearing the inscription “New Amsterdam;” a beautiful reminder of the city’s Dutch origins.

Next on our route was Federal Hall, which was erected in the 19th century as a Customs House. Prior the construction of the present building, however, the site hosted many milestones in the formulation of the United States government. The US Congress, such as it was, met here in the 1780s, when the (semi) United States of America was governed under the Articles of Confederation, and even as the US Constitution was written to supersede the Articles, the First Congress met on this site–and the Bill of Rights was first proposed here. More relevant to our current trip, George Washington was inaugurated on the balcony of the old Federal Building–the first-ever US Presidential inauguration! Standing on this site, therefore felt particularly resonant, considering we will be witnessing the 47th presidential inauguration in DC on Monday!

Approaching the Brooklyn Bridge, we began to make the long way up; winds from the surrounding waters grew increasingly cold.

This suspension bridge, one of the oldest in the United States, goes over the East River and connects Manhattan and Brooklyn.

When we reached the top, the spectacular view, however, made the chilly walk (the wind chill was in the teens) entirely worthwhile!

A shift in the atmosphere became apparent when we visited the 9/11 Memorial. The names etched in bronze, the twin waterfall pools, and the One World Trade Center made us all feel reflective. Saturday, we will get the chance to visit the museum, something we are greatly looking forward to as it will allow us to educate ourselves more on that disastrous day.

Before heading back to prepare for our evening of theater (Hadestown and Sunset Boulevard), we stopped at Zuccotti Park to observe Mark di Suvero’s “Joie de Vivre.” The 70-foot red steel sculpture definitely stands out against the Financial District backdrop, with its modern design creating an interesting contrast with the surrounding area.

Finally, we returned to the subway, hoping our earlier experiences had made us experts. Despite our optimism, we still struggled to navigate the system (particularly myself), but successfully made our way back to the hotel to prepare for an evening of theater.

Katz’s Deli

Although our time in NYC is short, we hope to squeeze in as many quality (and affordable) restaurants (and coffee shops) as possible. Thus, amidst our rambles on New York’s sidewalks, we espied Katz’s Deli, which was rated as the “Best Deli” in the Big Apple by Zagat, while also regularly appearing in the New York Times’ various “best of” lists. It is also notable for the many films that have set scenes in the Deli, including Donnie Brasco, We Own the Night, The Sidewalks of New York, and most famously, When Harry Met Sally.

Being new to the place, we weren’t familiar with the unique ordering system of Katz’s. When you enter, you are handed a ticket, which you then take to a counter where one of approximately 15 “cutters” are stationed. The cutters, so named because they cut the meat in front of you, offer suggestions and samples, and so it was that Professor Yawn ordered Pastrami…

…and Olivia ordered a Reuben.

Chrissy, for her part, took a different approach, veering from the “I’ll have what she’s having” custom at Katz’s. To hear Chrissy tell of her upbringing–an upbringing that changes upon retelling, depending on her energy level and degree of coherence–she was fed baloney, almost exclusively, for the first six or seven years of her life.

If we followed this narrative correctly, this prompted her to order “soft salami.” Despite gentle nudges from the cutter to consider the pastrami, Ms. Biello remained obdurate, insisting on the salami. The cutter, clearly disappointed, complied, although his look of disappointment was palpable.

Just because we ordered separate foods, however, doesn’t mean we actually ate separately. Chrissy shared in both the pastrami and the Reuben, while all of us sampled all the food at our table.

While we can’t compare Katz’s to other NY Delis, we were in general agreement that we don’t get Pastrami or Corned Beef as good in Texas…and we have a full appreciation for why the New York Times called this institution–in business since 1888–the “king of New York delis.”

Hadestown on Broadway

by Olivia Discon

After spending the day exploring New York, Chrissy and I ended the night with a Broadway show—Hadestown at the Walter Kerr Theatre. Watching a production in this historic venue was an incredible experience, and Hadestown lived up to its reputation as one of Broadway’s best.

Written by Anaïs Mitchell, Hadestown is a retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The story follows Orpheus, a musician, and his journey to the Underworld to rescue his love, Eurydice, from Hades. The story covers some heavy hitting subjects while successfully executing a modern day retelling of the tragedy.

Chrissy and I both thoroughly enjoyed the set design.

The stage featured three spinning circles that worked like a treadmill, adding fluidity to the choreography and creating a sense of constant motion. This small but awesome detail elevated the performance and made every scene feel dynamic and alive.

The live jazz band, positioned on stage, was another highlight. Their presence both in song and in sound effects elevated the entire experience. It sort of reminded me of the live band that played at the first play I saw with LEAP, Chicago!

For Chrissy, Hermes (played by Malcolm Armwood) was the standout character, while I loved Persephone (played by Allison Russell). Both actors were incredibly talented and brought vastly different elements to the production. This cast can sing!

Seeing Hadestown has been a dream of mine for years, and getting to experience it with LEAP made it even more special. It’s a night I’ll cherish for a long time.

An Architectural Tour in Southwestern Pennsylvania

Working on little sleep, and following an eighteen-hour first day, LEAP Ambassadors arose at 6am to explore architecture in and around Pittsburgh, with a stop at PPG Place, a mural by Richard Haas, and two major works by Frank Lloyd Wright.

PPG Place

Our first stop was PPG place, a six-building, “glass gothic” design by Philip Johnson.

As part of our LEAP travels, we had seen Johnson buildings in Houston, and we had watched a documentary on him in preparation for this trip, but PPG place was a place like no other.

Completed in 1984, its towering glass spires and sleek facades embody Johnson’s signature postmodern style, blending classical elements with contemporary materials. Its gothic detailing pay homage to Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage, its all-glass encasing embraces the future with innovative design, and its central plaza allows for a nice place to gather, which we did!

Richard Haas Mural
As a teenager, Haas spent a summer apprenticing for Frank Lloyd Wright, so it is no surprise that his murals take on an architectural quality. Indeed, Haas’s website describes him as an “architectural muralist,” an apt sobriquet.

We know Haas primarily through his 15 works in Huntsville, but we’ve also seen his work in Fort Worth, which is a masterpiece. So it was with excitement that we tracked down his Pittsburgh mural, which is near the corner of Sixth and Fort Duquesne Boulevard.

As you might expect, it features an industrial scene, an homage to Pittsburgh steel-making history, with nods to its central location at the juncture of multiple rivers.

It’s always a pleasure to see Haas’s work, but this was especially true today, when we would also have a chance to see the work of his former boss, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Kentuck Knob

The first of our Frank Lloyd Wright site visits was to Kentuck Knob, which is nestled in the mountains of southwestern Pennsylvania. Designed in 1953, Kentuck Knob embodies Wright’s principles of organic architecture, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings–and, in this case, adorned with a healthy helping of artwork, by artists such as Anthony Caro, Scott Burton, and George Rickey. We learned much of this thanks to our wonderful tour guide, Jan.

Among Wright aficionados, Kentuck Knob is known as a “Grand USoNian.” Wright’s USoNian homes were designed for middle-class residents. They were, relatively speaking, affordable, while still serving as an interesting, sculptural domicile.

Kentuck Knob had Wright’s characteristic overhanging eaves…

…adorned with clerestory windows;

…a double carport (he hated garages, which he regarded as receptacles for junk); and a “compression and release” entrance to the house.

The home follows is structured as a series of parallelograms, giving the home an interesting look and an aesthetic cohesiveness.

We were particularly struck by the beautiful living room with floor-to-ceiling windows (which could also serve as doors to the patio), beautiful Wright-designed furniture, and the unique touches for which Wright was famous.

But it was the way the home interacted with the environment that we most enjoyed. The home is about five miles from Fallingwater, and the owners wanted their own “water element,” so they added a small rockfall and pool on the patio. The home is also perched on the brow of the hill, not atop the hill. Wright did this to ensure that the home merged with the environment (rather than overtaking the environment), and with a short walk along the property, we were able to see the beautiful art-adorned grounds and a view that even real-estate agents could not exaggerate.

Fallingwater

After visiting Kentuck Knob, another of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces, we headed to Fallingwater. Seeing Kentuck Knob had piqued my interest, and I was even more excited to explore another of Wright’s creations.

Frank Lloyd Wright was a fascinating and complex architect, known for his innovative USoNian homes—affordable, stylish, and functional houses for middle-class Americans. He also pioneered organic architecture, harmonizing structures with their natural surroundings, which Fallingwater epitomizes. Designed in 1935 and built directly over a waterfall in 1938 for the Edgar J. Kaufmann family, this house, which blends stone, concrete, steel, glass, and wood, celebrates what Wright termed “organic architecture.”

With the help of our tour guide, Millie from West Virginia, we approached the house. At first sight, Fallingwater was magnificent. Wright’s design philosophy was evident in the “hidden” doorway, a narrow entrance that transitioned into open spaces meant to connect inhabitants with nature. The structure is supported by concrete beams that project out over the waterfall, creating an impression of weightlessness.

The entrance repeated Wright’s “compression and release” philosophy, and he continued the cantilever motif, making much of the furniture and design elements an echo of the home’s overall design. The living room’s open design encouraged social interaction while the more intimate upstairs rooms offered privacy. The master bedroom, with its large balcony over the waterfall, provided a serene and breathtaking view.

We noticed Wright’s attention to detail, such as the seamless glass-to-glass windows, which eliminated barriers between the indoors and the natural world, as well as the art work in the home–much of which also repeated the cantilever design.

Indeed, art was a theme throughout the house, with a Picasso, several Audubon works, and a Diego Rivera (Frida Kahlo was a guest at the house!).

Our tour concluded with a view of the waterfall from across the home, capturing the full splendor of Wright’s integration of architecture and nature.

We all sat momentarily, taking in the beauty and snapping photos, cherishing the experience.

Meandering Through Madison

Following yesterday’s travel day, we were ready for a full day in beautiful Madison, Wisconsin. To that end, we began with brunch, followed by a full day of learning. But this being Wisconsin, where protest is not only tolerated in the city, but actively encouraged, our first site was a number of “handmaids” descending on the capitol…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol, Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood

DLux

For our first full day in Wisconsin, we started our day with brunch at Dlux, which is about half a block from the Wisconsin State Capitol. Being from the hot state of Texas, we jumped at the opportunity to enjoy our food outside without melting in the process. Our food choices included more classic Wisconsin fare…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, DLUX, Ilexus Williams

…such as Cheese Curds…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, DLUX

…the Salmon Burger, the White Bean Burger…

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…and some truly wonderful shakes!

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, DLUX

After brunch, the Leapsters headed to view their third Frank Lloyd Wright Structure!

Monona Terrace Tour

After having a quick brunch, the Leapsters toured the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. The Monona Terrace was designed by the architect we have studied throughout our entire trip: Frank Lloyd Wright. Frank Lloyd Wright has designed more than 1,000 structures. However, during his lifetime, he was only able to complete 523 structures. Out of Mr. Wright’s 1,000 designs, the Monona Terrace was one of the structures he was unable to see through to its completion, at least during his lifetime.

In 1938, Frank Lloyd Wright designed a building that would establish a clear relationship between the Wisconsin State Capitol and Lake Monona. Local newspaper articles called it the “dream Civic Center.” His original plan for the design included an auditorium, rail depot, marina, courthouse, and city hall. Mr. Wright proposed his plan to the County Board, but his plan failed to pass.

Mr. Wright went through many obstacles that prevented his plan from coming to fruition. In 1941, the citizens of Madison approved Mr. Wright’s plan for an auditorium. However, World War II halted his plan again. In 1955, after the conclusion of the war, Madison citizens approved a bond referendum that allocated 4 million to create a civic center. The location of the building was selected and Mr. Wright was approved as the architect. In 1957, the project was stalled by the passage of a bill that reduced the height of a building on Monona Lake to 20 feet. In 1959, the bill preventing this project was appealed. However, on April 9, 1959, Frank Lloyd Wright died at the age of 91 in Arizona. From 1966 to 1990, the city of Madison proposed many plans to complete Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision, but all failed. However, in 1992, the city turns Mr. Wright’s civic center idea into a convention center. This plan for the building was approved by voters and funding for the building was secured. Finally, in 1994, after almost 56 years, the construction for Monona Terrace began.

In 1997, 59 years after its initial proposal, Mr. Wright’s vision was realized.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Frank Lloyd Wright

The Monona Terrace currently serves as a gathering place for conventions, weddings, banquets, etc.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Frank Lloyd Wright

The Monona terrace is the third Frank Lloyd Wright structure that the LEAP Students have viewed. We will not call ourselves experts, but we have picked up on key features that make a Frank Lloyd Wright Structure a Frank Lloyd Wright Structure. The first and most evident is the use of a hue of red Mr. Wright calls Cherokee Red. This color can be found in many places throughout the building such as the walkway leading to the front entrance, the carpet, furniture, etc.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Frank Lloyd Wright

Also, Mr. Wright is well known for utilizing what he called organic architecture. He believed in creating structures that compliment its environment. He emphasized the relationship between architecture and nature. His use of organic architecture can be found specifically in his repeated use of halfmoon shapes. Halfmoon shapes were used to create door handles, light fixtures, and chandeliers. The most obvious use of this shape is in the windows, which give a great view of Lake Monona.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Frank Lloyd Wright

We also recognized Frank Lloyd Wright’s use of compress and release to help lead you through the building. Frank Lloyd Wright also incorporated domes within the building to pay homage to the Wisconsin Capitol, a motif that is particularly evident in the Guggenheim-like stairwells…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Frank Lloyd Wright

Additionally, the LEAP students were excited to see that the Monona Terrace is a LEED certified building.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Frank Lloyd Wright

Another interesting fact, in the creation of the Monona Terrace. a Richard Haas mural was covered.The LEAP Students like to think of this as a collaboration between Frank Lloyd Wright and Richard Haas. We took some time to find the mural after our tour.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Richard Haas

Haas created this mural in the 1980s, but it was covered up a little more than a decade later, to make way for a design by Frank Lloyd Wright, leaving only some dimly-seen vestiges of Haas.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Richard Haas

First Unitarian Society of Madison

The First Unitarian Society of Madison was established in 1879, in Madison, Wisconsin.The Unitarian meeting house is a church that practices Unitarian Universalism. This religion places an emphasis on uniting people of different ethnicities, ages, political identities, gender, and spiritualities. The congregation of this church is very diverse and come from different walks of life. However, all Unitarians share 7 core principles that they value that bonds their congregation as one. Unitarians believe that every person has worth, and they accept individuals for who they are. Also, they believe in growing through a personal search for truth, working for justice, and they believe that everything is interconnected.

Speaking of things being connected, Frank Lloyd Wright had a direct relationship to The Unitarian Society of Madison when he was commissioned to build their new church. Frank Lloyd Wright was a member of the Unitarian Society of Madison and his parents were founding members. Because of his direct tie to the Unitarian Society his ideologies were strategically incorporated throughout the structure of the building.

We began our tour on the front side of the structure, which is referred to as the prow. This part of the building is described as if it is “reaching for the Heavens”. Some even believe that this is a symbol for praying hand. However, for Mr. Wright the soaring glass represents “aspiration.” The prow of the meeting house is also a symbol for unity. A traditional church has a steeple, sanctuary, and separate meeting rooms. However, the prow is designed to include the sanctuary, steeple, and other portions of a church under the same roof.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, First Unitarian Society, Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright found meaning in geometric shapes. His use of triangles throughout this structure is a symbol of strength.

Next, we headed to the entrance of the building. We learned that during the construction of the meeting house the congregation took an active role in building the church. The walls of the church are made of dolomite found about 35 miles north of Madison. Members of the Unitarian Society of Madison traveled to this location and hauled the stones to the building site to reduce the cost of construction. These members are known as stone haulers and are well respected in the church.

The meeting house is privileged to have Frank Lloyd Wright’s Stamp of approval. Red ceramic blocks with Mr. Wright’s signature are placed on buildings he is most proud of. (Picture)

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, First Unitarian Society, Frank Lloyd Wright

Next we were led to the foyer, which had Mr. Wright’s signature Cherokee red floors along with double triangle pattern tiling. The foyer also has a low hanging ceiling, which is an example of compression.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, First Unitarian Society, Frank Lloyd Wright

This architecture technique helped pushed us to the next room:The Hearth Room.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, First Unitarian Society, Frank Lloyd Wright

The Hearth Room has a hexagonal dome that is inscribed with the names of Unitarian ministers and transcendentalists that Mr. Wright believed to be influential. The Hearth Room sits at the back of the sanctuary, and it has a compressing feeling due to its low ceiling. However, when you step into the sanctuary you get a feeling of release because of the soaring ceilings.

In the Sanctuary, the pews were constructed to form camaraderie among the members. Instead of all seats facing the altar, Mr. Wright made the pews on both the left and right side face the middle section of pews. The meeting house also gave a beautiful view of the inside structure of the prow.The LEAP students were able to take a moment to experience the calming ambiance and sense of security the sanctuary gave.

Out of the Sanctuary, we were led to the loggia. This part of the structure mimics the triangular shape that is found through the building. The walls are lines with Japanese prints that were given to the church by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Overall, the Unitarian Society of Madison was a beautiful structure, and it is by far the best we have toured on our trip. Up next, the Leap students headed to tour their second state capitol!

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, First Unitarian Society, Frank Lloyd Wright

Wisconsin Capitol

Our final (official) stop of the day was the Wisconsin Capitol. This building, completed in 1917 at a cost of more than seven million, is just under 300 feet tall. While this is about 20 feet shorter than the Texas Capitol building–where we both worked this spring–it made up for its relative short stature with its beauty.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

Of particular beauty, was the interior dome.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

Unlike the Texas Capitol, the architect devoted as much time and energy on the interior as the exterior. There were rooms with particular motifs, such as the “Gold Room.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

The Senate and the House of Representatives were both beautiful…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

…with murals and other decorations that exemplified the state’s history. The Governor’s reception room was also beautiful, with a particularly attractive ceiling….

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

Perhaps the highlight of the capitol tour, however, was the ability to go high into the capitol dome…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

…and to the observation deck.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

This was a world of fun, giving us the opportunity to take photos of the surroundings…

…the beautiful exterior detail…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

…and, of course, ourselves.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol

It was a beautiful day in a beautiful city, and we enjoyed our time here.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Wisconsin Capitol, Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood

The Architecture of the Plains–but not plain architecture!

After a few interesting days at Indiana Dunes National Park, LEAP students set out for Chicago and Madison, with the hopes of making the most of a travel day.

Richard Haas (Homewood, IL)

Ilexus Williams

One of our first stops was in a suburb of Chicago: Homewood, IL. This clean, pleasant little town is home to many of the murals of Richard Haas, well known for his trompe l’oeil style. Trompe l’oeil is a French term that translates to “deceive the eye,” and this art style uses optical illusion to create realistic images. These murals often appear three-dimensional, as your eyes are tricked into falling for the illusion. We were fortunate enough to see five on our drive through town.

The first mural depicted the Homewood movie theater. Upcoming films included classics such Gone With the Wind and Citizen Kane, a film we had studied through our work in the LEAP Center.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Homewood IL, Richard Haas

We saw Haas’s signage across numerous storefronts, real and faux, while also seeing the originators of these murals in the form of “movie credits.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Homewood IL, Richard Haas

Reviewing the work was fun, particularly since our adopted hometown of Huntsville, Texas, has the most external Haas murals of any city in the world.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Homewood IL, Richard Haas

Richard Haas Murals (Chicago, IL)

Ilexus Williams

Once we made it to the Windy City, we realized that it should have been nicknamed the Foggy City instead. A dense layer of fog hung low in the sky, depressingly hiding most of the city’s varied architecture.

To tie our trip from Homewood to Chicago, one of our first stops was to discover another Richard Haas mural – on the side of the LaSalle Towers Apartments. This mural depicts realistic windows that scale the entire side of the building. The painting was so good as to made it hard to recognize that the window was not a part of the building.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago IL, Richard Haas

Sadly, the murals were partially covered by surrounding buildings, which were constructed subsequent to the mural. This is something we’ve seen before (in Boston), and it’s something we would also see in Wisconsin.

After viewing Richard Haas’s mural, LEAPsters went in search of Chicago-esque food.

The Wiener’s Circle (Chicago, IL)

Ilexus Williams

It would not—could not–be a “real” Chicago trip without trying a Chicago-style dog. The Wiener’s Circle is small restaurant in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. Chicago dogs are drastically different from what we would consider a “normal” hot dog—those topped with mustard, ketchup, onions, relish, and maybe chili. However, “Chicago Dogs” are much more intricate, topped with yellow mustard, chopped onions, sweet relish, a pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and sprinkled with celery salt. (This is referred to as “dragged through the garden.”)

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Chicago Dog

Your Chicago Dog can be prepared either steamed or cooked on a charcoal grill – these are known as “char-dogs.” We all ordered the Polish Char Dog, which was loaded with caramelized onions, a pickle spear, and tomatoes. By “we,” I mean Professor Yawn, Stephanie, and me. Maggie ordered a boring “plain dog,” which is basically spam on a bun.

Another interesting facet of the Wiener Circle is that they are not afraid of scaring off customers by posting political speech on their restaurant sign…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wiener Circle

After devouring lunch, we were a bit early for our next stop, a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Bach House. We stopped to walk off some calories on the Lake Michigan shoreline, which was still so foggy you could barely see the water.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Lake Michigan

The effect was more than a little strange, especially given the birds flocking to the shore.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Lake Michigan

Frank Lloyd Wright Homes

Being in the midwest, we knew we were in Frank Lloyd Wright territory, and that prompted us to visit a couple of his better-known homes in the area.

Our first stop in Chicago was to the Frederick C. Robie house at 5757 S Woodlawn Ave, Chicago, IL 60637. This house was completed in 1910 and is the ultimate expression of Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous prairie style of architecture. The Robie house went through many hands before it was restored to Mr. Wrights original vision by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. Over the years since the house’s creation, Wright himself lobbied on behalf of the house when it was threatened to be demolished in 1941 and again in 1957. Despite the hundreds of structures Mr. Wright designed, the Robie house was recognized as one of the ten most significant structures of the twentieth century by the American Institute of Architects.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Robie House

The house features extensive horizontal lines and dramatization, even in the exterior brick masonry.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Robie House

Unfortunately, we were unable to tour the inside of the Robie house and get a feel for Mr. Wrights notable “compression and expansion” techniques.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Robie House

However, we were able to schedule a tour for the Emil Bach house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, located at 7415 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, Illinois, 60626. The Emil Bach house was built in 1915, after Wright returned from Europe. This house is a continuation of his prairie style home with the added element of Japanese influence that he later became popular for adding into his architecture.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Emil Bach House

The roofline and ceiling features were examples of that Japanese expression and he coupled that with a series of geometric cubes visible throughout the home.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Emil Bach House

The tour was enjoyable…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Emil Bach House

…and we were able to take photographs inside the home…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Emil Bach House

…which is rare in a FLW home. The interior was filled with typical Wright touches, such as specially designed lamps, furniture, and many levels in the home, making it something of a labyrinthine tour.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Emil Bach House

With the closing of our tour…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Chicago, Frank Lloyd Wright, Emil Bach House

…our next goal was to exit Chicago before the rush-hour traffic got underway.

Madison, WI

Ilexus Williams

After arriving in Madison, Wisconsin, the LEAP Students took a stroll around downtown while waiting for a table at “The Old Fashioned”. On our impromptu excursion of downtown, the LEAP students who just recently finished internships in Austin ran into something that is all too familiar: protestors. The Wisconsin State Capitol is currently in session, so their capitol grounds is a prime location for citizens to advocate and rally for issues that they feel most passionate about.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Capitol, Pride Month, Protestors

…in this case, the protesters were addressing “Pride Month,” expressing their views with signs, speeches, and rhyming chants (e.g., “We’re here, we’re queer / we’re fabulous, don’t mess with us”).

We also took a visit to the Monona Terrace, which is a Frank Lloyd Wright structure that we will tour later in our Wisconsin visit. The top of this structure had a beautiful view of the Wisconsin State Capitol.

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Looking the other way, we also had a view of the beautiful lake.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Lake Menona

Following views of our latest FLW stop, we continued our tour of downtown Madison, and we were surprised at how quickly we accumulated power, eventually becoming the “Monarch of Madison.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monarch of Madison

Dinner

Finally, we had dinner at “The Old Fashioned”. This local restaurant strives to give its native Wisconsin customers a feeling of nostalgia by incorporating everything that makes Wisconsin…Wisconsin, at least as far as food is concerned. “The Old Fashioned” emphasize their meats, cheeses and produce, and local staples.

With Wisconsin being the Dairy state, we ordered the Wisconsin Beer-Battered Cheese Curds.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Old Fashioned

We also ordered the Lazy Susan Platter.This platter was filled with Miesfeld Market Holiday Garlic Salami, Bavaria’s Braunschweiger, smoked lake trout, creamed herring, Dusseldorf mustard, dill pickles, deviled eggs, Widmer’s Brick spread, Vern’s Sharp Cheddar spread with a side of crackers & rye bread.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Old Fashioned

The Wurst Platter, which was filled with Bavaria Sausage, Nürnberger bratwurst, knackwurst and weisswurst with grilled bread, sauerkraut, local dilly beans and mustards.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Old Fashioned

And Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup garnished with popcorn.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Old Fashioned

We learned that popcorn happens to be a staple in Wisconsin and is used in many of their dishes. And, of yeah, Maggie also got a chicken sandwich.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Old Fashioned

Overall the food was amazing. We ate way too much food, and we nearly needed someone to roll us back to our hotel. Without a doubt, it was a great day in the badger state!

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Madison WI, Monona Terrace, Lake Menona

heART of Huntsville: The Downtown

There is no better way to spend an evening in Huntsville than appreciating the charming scenery and architecture that it has to offer. Those seeking to gain insight on how the city came to be so rich in art and history came along with us last Thursday for the second week of heART of Huntsville.

Our first stop was the Old Town Theatre on 12 Street.