Portrait of Frank Owen Gehry
The 1940s were a tough time for almost everyone, but not so for a little boy with a big imagination. Frank Owen Gehry, born and raised Ephraim Owen Goldberg in Toronto, Ontario, was intrigued with the most insignificant of articles, trash to most. Ephraim’s grandfather owned a hardware store that held many treasures in creating new and exciting little cities. Today, Frank Gehry tops the list as one of the most accomplished architects and designers in the world with his buildings and modern furniture.
Gehrys architectural designs have received harsh criticism from designers who see his work as overshadowing a buildings intended use with an overwhelming nature. Others applaud the fresh, non-traditional role that a Gehry building offers to society and welcome his methods with awards and embrace his role as Distinguished Professor of Architecture at Columbia University and the Yale School of Architecture. He continues to receive many national, regional and local A.I.A. awards, in addition to the Pritzker Prize in 1989.
Structural design is not the only focus for the busy Canadian born designer and celebrity. Smaller, detail oriented pieces like jewelry, household items, sculptures and furniture also capture a fascination for Gehry. Easy Edges, was his first furniture line that was featured in 1969, made completely out of cardboard. The latest furniture creation is the Gehry Furniture Collection by Heller, featuring sturdy, whimsical and comfortable movable pieces for recreation, entertaining or everyday use.
The New World Symphony campus in Miami Beach, Florida is one of dozens of projects currently being worked by Gehry in his non-stop zest for intriguing designs. Many international buildings dazzle their surroundings, causing a majestic scene among the most common of settings. For instance, Energie Forum Innovation, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany, stands gleaming in the sun, as beautiful as the day is was constructed some thirteen years ago, presenting a sense of cultural power and pride.
Gehrys latest furniture line by Heller is quickly gaining popularity in the international world because of the interchangeable uses, timeless appearance and uniqueness of style. Well build with an emphasis on coil aberration and flexible fabric; little care is necessary in placing the collection of lightweight cubes, modern benches, chairs, sofas and tables in several different settings.
A quiet boy from the 40s proves that imagination can grow into anything obtainable with hard work and structure. Owning a piece of Frank Owen Gehry can never go wrong with the extensive reputation that this man has made for himself and his modern contemporary furniture design.