Disney Concert Hall by Frank Gehry (Library of Congress/Carol Highsmith)
In some of his earliest work, architect Frank Gehry demonstrated his reaction against cold and formulistic modernism by using striking combinations of the common materials of metal, wood, and stone in new and at times startling ways, such as in his remodeling of his home in Santa Monica.
Over time and with the aid of advanced digital design tools, he became known for creating monumental structures with a physical sweep and flow that had been previously unattainable. In such iconic projects as the Guggenheim Museum, the Disney Concert Hall, and the Fondation Louis Vuitton, Gehry achieved stunningly designed yet highly functional buildings.
Gehry has achieved world-class status as a postmodernist and deconstructivist, but his work embraces much more, comfortably working in many styles, as his ongoing work at the Philadelphia Museum and his designs for Facebook headquarters in San Francisco demonstrate. His work is fascinating, imaginative, always fresh, and unexpected—as well as controversial, often-derided, and at times seen as the antithesis of good architecture. In a richly detailed program, Bill Keene, a lecturer in history, urban studies, and architecture, examines Gehry’s life and career from his earliest buildings to works in progress.
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit*
Patron Information
- If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
- Unless otherwise noted, registration for online programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
- Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
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- View Common FAQs about our online programs presented on Zoom.
*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1/2 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.
