Jan accompanied us on a visit to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and location for training his aspiring, apprentices. What a beautiful place! Frank Lloyd Wright was attempting to destroy the box even in the 1930’s.

The wide front with mountains in the background could only be captured in a panorama. The low sprawling buildings really didn’t detract from the desert as was his intent.

This fountain at the entrance is your first glimpse at his uncut stone and mortar style of construction.

Centuries old petroglyphs had been brought down from the mountain to adorn this beautiful place of learning and experimentation.

An ancient cactus protrudes from the mortar in the wall and guides point out how long it has grown there.

Beauty is everywhere.

I imagine they liked to chill in the pool after a hard day of building.

We enjoyed the view of the buildings against the mountain. From here, you can see Camelback Mountain and almost the entire valley.

Tons of natural light flood this large open living room. Our tour guide says the chairs were constructed from a single 4′ x 8′ sheet of plywood and improve your posture. They were very comfy.

I was impressed by the contrast of textures in artwork on the walls. It masterfully compliments the organic nature of the site.

When Wright’s anti-glass policy changed, installers were forced to leave the vase in its place and install the glass around it as Wright refused to let them move it.

He collected Asian art and this is my favourite piece.

On our next trip to Taliesin West, we will take the desert tour. Maybe we will follow this meandering path.

Another fountain in front of the dinner theatre.

I wished I could spend more time here. I love shapes and I think I need a sculpture garden…

Another piece of fine art caught my eye. This one was created from different types of nails hammered to different depths reminding me of topographical maps. Sturdy stone walls would be required for the sheer weight of this artwork.

I am pretty sure we will return to Taliesin West and study what we can from the master, Frank Lloyd Wright.