Frank Gehry, legendary architect who designed LA's Walt Disney Concert Hall, dies at 96

Renowned Architect Frank Gehry Leaves Lasting Legacy, Dies at 96

Frank Gehry, a visionary architect whose designs have captivated the world with their innovative and often provocative style, has passed away at the age of 96. The Canadian-born architect's death marks the end of an era in the world of architecture, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.

Gehry's fascination with modern pop art led him to create some of the most distinctive buildings of our time. His designs often pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible, and he was not afraid to challenge conventional norms. Among his many iconic structures are the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain; The Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles; and Berlin's DZ Bank Building.

Throughout his career, Gehry received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Pritzker Prize, often referred to as the Nobel Prize of architecture. He was also awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects gold medal, the Americans for the Arts lifetime achievement award, and the Companion of the Order of Canada, among others.

Gehry's journey to becoming one of the world's most celebrated architects was not without its challenges. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Gehry grew up in a mining town in Timmins, Ontario, where he developed a passion for drawing and building model cities as a child. It wasn't until he was 20 that he began to consider a career in architecture.

After earning his degree from the University of Southern California in 1954 and serving in the Army, Gehry studied urban planning at Harvard University. However, it wasn't until later in his life that he gained widespread recognition for his architectural designs.

Gehry's most famous works include the IAC Building in New York City's Chelsea district and the New York By Gehry building, one of the world's tallest residential structures. He also joined the faculty of his alma mater, the University of Southern California, as a professor of architecture.

While Gehry's designs were often praised for their originality and innovation, he was not immune to criticism. Some critics dismissed his work as "oppressive" or "tourist attractions." However, Gehry remained steadfast in his approach, refusing to compromise on his artistic vision.

Throughout his life, Gehry struggled with self-doubt and insecurity, which often made him appear humble despite his widespread recognition. In a 2006 interview with The Associated Press, he stated, "I'm totally flabbergasted that I got to where I've gotten. Now it seems inevitable, but at the time it seemed very problematic."

Gehry is survived by his wife, Berta; daughter, Brina; sons Alejandro and Samuel; and his legacy, which will continue to inspire architects and designers around the world for generations to come.
 
dude I'm like totally saddened by this news... Gehry's designs were like whoa, you know? He took the norm and just threw it out the window 🀯. Like, remember that Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao? That thing is like a work of art, man! And the way he mixed modern pop art with architecture was like, genius 😎. But what's crazy is how some people still didn't get it back then... I mean, "oppressive" and "tourist attractions"? Come on! It's all about pushing boundaries, you know? Gehry might've been humble, but his work spoke for itself πŸ’ͺ. Anyway, he left behind an incredible legacy that'll keep inspiring us to think outside the box πŸ“¦. RIP Frank Gehry πŸ‘‹
 
Just heard about Frank Gehry's passing πŸ€•. He was like a true art revolutionary - designs that were super innovative & thought-provoking. Love how he pushed boundaries with modern pop art style 🎨. Not everyone agreed with his stuff, but he stuck to his vision no matter what. Can't deny the impact he had on architecture & design. His legacy is huge, and we'll be seeing it for a looong time. He's definitely one of those architects that will always be remembered πŸ’₯
 
I'm still trying to wrap my head around the idea that Frank Gehry's stuff was really "oppressive" or just a bunch of tourist attractions πŸ€”. I mean, have you seen some of his buildings? The Guggenheim in Bilbao? That's some crazy design. And don't even get me started on the Walt Disney Concert Hall in LA - it's like something out of a sci-fi movie πŸš€. I'm not saying he didn't have his critics, but I think he was unfairly maligned by some people.

Also, I'm wondering when are we gonna see a documentary about his life and work? It seems to me that Gehry is the perfect guy for a Netflix series or something. I mean, his story is like something out of a movie - from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most famous architects in the world πŸ“š. And those quotes he said in 2006? totally quotable πŸ˜‚.

I'm just gonna go ahead and say it now: Frank Gehry was a genius and I'm still trying to get over his passing πŸ’”. What are your thoughts on his legacy?
 
frank gehry was a genius or a total madman lol what's up with that guy's designs tho? some people love him like he's the second coming while others hate him like he's a giant metal spider on a building idk about you but i think his legacy is going to be huge his Guggenheim museum in bilbao looks crazy and beautiful at the same time its like a piece of art that u can walk into anyone who hates him needs to chill 96 is old for an architect btw what would he've designed if he were alive today πŸ€”πŸ 
 
man, cant believe frank gehry is gone πŸ’” he was like a genius or something, always pushing the boundaries of what's possible with architecture. his designs are so iconic, like who can forget that walt disney concert hall in la? 🎡 it's crazy how someone could have such an impact on the world without even being afraid to make people question what's normal. he was a true original, and we're all gonna miss him 😒
 
πŸ€” can you believe frank gehry was only 96? it's crazy that he left us at such a young age considering all the amazing stuff he accomplished in his life i remember watching videos of him talking about his designs and how he got inspiration from pop art... he seemed so humble and down-to-earth despite being one of the most famous architects of our time πŸ€·β€β™‚οΈ
 
man what a legend 😊 just heard about frank gehry passin away at 96... i remember seein his designs in architecture books back in the day πŸ“š they were like nothin' anyone had ever seen before, all these curves and angles and stuff 🀯 he was definitely a visionary, but some people didnt understand him, said his buildings were like tourist traps or somethin' 😐 i think that's crazy, 'cause i mean, those guyz are iconic! πŸ™Œ he inspired so many young architects, including me, to push the boundaries of design... anywayz, gehry will be deeply missed but his legacy lives on πŸ’”
 
πŸ™ 96 years young and still leaving us in awe. Frank Gehry's legacy is a testament to the power of innovation and pushing boundaries. His designs may have sparked controversy, but they'll always be remembered as iconic and game-changing. πŸ’₯ I think what's most impressive about his story is how he remained true to himself, even when faced with self-doubt and criticism. That takes courage and dedication. He'll be deeply missed, but his work will continue to inspire new generations of architects and designers. 🌟
 
Back
Top