Interview with Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright in 1954.

The exact date of this episode is unknown. We've filled in the date above with a placeholder. What we actually have on record is: 1952-06-uu.

This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Larry Lafer interviews Frank Lloyd Wright following his talk to students at the American Institute of Architects meeting at Convention Hall.

Wright is asked about his definition of an architect and his views about the future of architecture, he replies that "An architect is the pattern giver of a civilization; the form giver." He believes that architects are too educated and do not have enough experience, resulting in a superficial chasing after effects. He notes that he is afraid that the profession at the present time is at rather a low ebb. Lot of youth now entering profession so we can hope for quality over quantity; quantity can be modified by quality. Democracy can only survive with quality; quantity is
going to swamp quality if we don't look out. Democracy was never intended to be a mass production affair, it's based on individualism and protected by government. A free life is not necessarily a free-for-all. It's nothing someone gives you. A free life is something you work out for yourself. Freedom is not conferred, must be worked out from self. Great deal more spiritual than physical.

Wright describes his work "Content is not the word to use in connection with me. My work and living in accordance with certain beliefs; it's extremely satisfying and entertaining success and freedom can't be had on any other basis. Isn't freedom living and loving your work? The economic question is to be solved by the individual. Civilization is a way of life and culture is what you do to make that life beautiful and that's what architects try to do. Nothing is more rewarding."

Wright discusses the Solomon Gugenheim Museum, explaining "It is hard to describe an organic building," the museum was planned for 7 years to be built to help further the cause of non objective art; painting which is to the eye what music is to the ear and depends on no representation of objects. Discusses his belief that line and form and color are part of language and can be employed to provide great and beautiful effects. Wright speaks of Gugenheim, who left $8 million to have his work continue into the future

Wright goes on "Happiness is faith and belief in something....I think civilization where age becomes a disqualification has no where to go; production is the measure of things...they speak of man the animal, not the spiritual man."

Asked "Are cities here to stay?" Nothing is here to stay and I hope the city is not long to stay. All advantages become disadvantages. It's a time consuming, soul destroying incident in human life..I can see no benefit now for the pig piling which takes place now in the city.


Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection


WNYC archives id: 8449
Municipal archives id: LT2661