Michael Apostolos, RA, AIA, Principal, Green Concepts Group, LLC
February 2010
Just got the e-architect’s newspaper on the passing of Lawrence Halprin – what a great life he lived and the many contributions he provided through his work and efforts.
The article was well done and appreciated. As I read through the piece, it brought me to recall the fond memories from Mr. Halprin’s visit as a program speaker to one of the AIA’s Western Mountain Region Conferences, hosted by the Wyoming AIA Chapter in Jackson Hole, WY a number of years ago. Mr. Halprin attended the conference with Sue Yung Ikeda for several days and the attached photograph was at the airport when I picked up Mr. Halprin and Ms. Ikeda and of the sheer delight of Mr. Halprin having his picture taken with Ms. Ikeda and the Host Chapter “Cow Limo”, courtesy of the Cody Chamber of Commerce. We used this vehicle to shuttle dignitaries during the conference and Mr. Halprin enjoyed his time being taken to the different events via the “Cow Limo”. The program he and Ms. Ikeda presented on master planning, design and communities was absolutely one of the best I have ever attended and have used that information and some of his philosophies during my career. But the most pleasant memory is of Mr. Halprin riding in the “Cow Limo” slapping his hand on the side of the car in tune with the western music being played through the car’s PA system when I was driving them around Jackson Hole after an evening at the western theater. Having had several occasions to visit with him, it was obvious he had a great love of life and was truly a pioneer in is field and will be remembered by all who knew him and those that enjoy his work as they walk through it. Thank you for a well-written article on a man of great vision, talent and professionalism.
Photo: Lawrence and Sue Ikeda (Photo courtesy Cody Chamber of Commerce)