Issue 468 June 11th 2025

The Headlines

Frank Lloyd Wright & the College of Tomorrow Exhibit Opens

The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art in Lakeland, FL is set to open the "Frank Lloyd Wright & the College of Tomorrow" exhibition from June 7 to November 16, 2025. Developed in collaboration with MCWB Architects and Florida Southern College, the exhibition explores architect Frank Lloyd Wright's 20-year vision for a campus in Lakeland, Florida. It showcases original drawings, architectural plans, correspondence, and furnishings, with loans from the Art Bridges Foundation and Columbia University’s Avery Architectural Library. A highlight is a 3-D printed model of Wright's full campus design, including both completed and unbuilt structures.

This exhibition marks the largest original exhibit in the Museum's history, occupying three galleries, and it provides a rare look at Wright's unbuilt designs. The show reflects years of collaboration and highlights the innovative spirit of Wright’s work at Florida Southern College. Jeff Baker, a longtime advocate for Wright’s legacy, emphasizes that the exhibition offers a rare glimpse of Wright's full vision, which was never fully realized.

Beyond architecture, the exhibition delves into Wright's "textile block" system, exploring how his unique construction methods evolved. The Museum's commitment to art in all its forms is underscored, with a focus on Wright’s artistic genius. The exhibition invites visitors to also explore the nearby Florida Southern College campus, home to the world’s largest collection of Wright buildings.

Westcott House's Executive Director Pushes Boundaries With Art & Architecture

Marta Wojcik has spent two decades blending art and architecture to both connect the Springfield community and introduce the city’s Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Westcott House to visitors. Originally from Krakow, Poland, Wojcik moved to the U.S. after completing her master’s in art history. She was initially drawn to Chicago but later moved to Springfield, Ohio for a job opportunity as curator at the Westcott House in 2005, just before its public opening.

Wojcik quickly grew fond of Springfield, appreciating the welcoming community and the chance to work within such an iconic building. Over her time at the Westcott House, she expanded its reach, introducing programs like design education for local students and hosting local tours exploring Springfield’s history and architecture. She also brought PechaKucha Nights to the city, offering a unique space for idea-sharing.

Nominated as a Dayton Daily News Community Gem, Wojcik has been recognized for her leadership and vision, as well as her hands-on involvement in the day-to-day operations of the Westcott House. The museum attracts around 10,000 visitors annually, with many coming from outside Springfield, including international tourists. Wojcik continues to push creative boundaries, working alongside a small team and over 60 volunteers to further Springfield’s identity and cultural presence.

E. Faye Jones' Orton House Added To National Register Of Historic Places

A house in Fayetteville, AK, designed by E. Fay Jones has been inducted into the National Register of Historic Places.

The Orton House once belonged to Marion Orton, a former mayor and director for the City of Fayetteville. Jones designed the house for Marion and her husband, University of Arkansas professor Dr. William Orton.

The home was completed sometime between 1959 and 1960. It was made in "organic style," an architectural philosophy introduced by Frank Lloyd Wright and practiced by Jones and other U of A architects.

The Orton House was one of nine Arkansas properties added to the national register this year.

Historic Frank Lloyd Wright Gas Station Still Serves The Community

The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed gas station in Cloquet, Minnesota, remains a notable architectural landmark nearly 70 years after it opened in 1958. It is the only gas station ever built by Wright, originally designed for oil company owner Ray Lindholm. Still operating as a full-service station and repair shop, it draws interest from both residents and tourists. Local historians highlight its uniqueness, and the next major celebration will mark its 75th anniversary in 2033.

Airstream Unveils A Frank Lloyd Wright-Inspired Trailer

Airstream has teamed up with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation for a unique collaboration, unveiling the Usonian Limited Edition Travel Trailer. This debut model, introduced at Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona, blends Airstream’s iconic aluminum design with Wright's architectural legacy.

The 28-foot trailer is designed to bring the outdoors in, featuring more windows than any other Airstream model and a porthole door window. It sleeps up to four people with a flexible interior layout, including a convertible kitchen banquette and two blue sofas that transform into a king-sized bed. The primary bedroom has a large window and hatch for fresh air and stargazing.

Drawing inspiration from Wright’s designs, the trailer includes elements like the Gordon leaf motif, wood louvers in the ceiling, and timber shelves. These details reflect Wright’s Usonian principles, focusing on practical, multifunctional design that integrates with nature—values shared by Airstream since its founding in 1936.

This collaboration is seen as a perfect match for the two brands, as both share a commitment to design that harmonizes with the environment. Airstream has previously collaborated with brands like Pendleton and Eddie Bauer, but the partnership with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation stands out due to the alignment of their customer bases and design philosophies.

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