From Poetics of Music by Igor Stravinsky
"Invention presupposes imagination but should not be confused with it. For the act of invention implies the necessity of a lucky find and of achieving full realization of this find.
In the course of my labors I suddenly stumble upon something unexpected. This unexpected element strikes me. I make a note of it. At the proper time I put it to profitable use.
And the true creator may be recognized by his ability always to find about him, in the commonest and humblest thing, items worthy of note. . . . . . . . The least accident holds his interest and guides his operations. . . . . . . . . One does not contrive an accident: one observes it to draw inspiration therefrom. An accident is perhaps the only thing that really inspires us."
All on pages 53 and 54 of the original edition. I found the entire book, maybe minus the chapter on Russian music, illuminating about the process of design, at least my process.
Chicago Park District Headquarters by John Ronan Architects is a wonderful example of one idea being worked and worked into the design. I believe John recognizes Stravinsky's version of the design process. In this project, John managed to infuse the building with an exceptional, practical, and recognizably human unity. I hope the users of the building enjoy it as much as I did.
Second Subject
I was surprised by how little talk there was about sustainability. Has it become so embedded in our practices that it is no longer worth talking about?
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Mike Mense FAIA
Architect, Writer, Planner, Painter
mmenseArchitect
mensenyc on Instagram
Hamilton Heights, NYC and Snohomish WA
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