“As in all applied art, a photograph is only a mimesis. The reality of the art in Architecture, the mother of all applied arts, is revealed only in the palpable reality of being there. It is only through direct experience that what sets the art in Architecture apart from mere construction becomes evident. This revelation was confirmed when I visited Goose Island, a residential project designed by architect Susan Desko. The photographs I had seen in various publications were impressive in scope but failed to evoke the metaphors evident in this architectural masterwork. The setting, a river’s edge of gray barked cottonwood trees, was abstractly recalled in stone cladding. Not in a literal way but by a thoughtful and inventive carving away of natural stone. This move not only engaged the building in the site but gave a sense of permanence to the transient quality of live trees. This sense of engagement to the site was further grounded by the placement of huge stones which amplify the stone-lined river bottom. The scale of these over-sized stones evokes a primeval connection of human interaction with raw nature. One must be there and move through these articulated spaces to literally feel the metaphor. The geometric arrangement of the architectural entourage of terraced extensions grounds the principal building and sets up a contrast of human tracery with the natural, an honest expression of human involvement. As with all art, the completeness and wholeness of the composition is carried through by the architect’s integration of the landscape architecture, interior design and furnishings, and exquisite detailing of all the parts to make a whole. It is clear that the clients gave the architect the freedom to accomplish her best in executing a true work of architectural art. It is through her raw talent complimented by a Harvard education and association with great architects that her own greatness becomes realized. We are privileged to have such an architect in our community.” — Jack Smith, FAIA, Arch. D. Photo Credit: Susan Desko 27
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