by Cornelia Hahn Oberlander, O.C., FASLA, FCSLA
February 2010
As promised I am writing my memories of meeting Larry Halprin and Anna at the GSD in Cambridge.
It was the winter of 1944 when I entered the basement of Robinson Hall. There were students in Landscape Architecture and first year Architecture students in the same studio. Opposite my desk was Larry Halprin, a most distinguished figure, who was able to draw and explain to us newcomers what landscape was all about.
He spoke to us about discovery of the landscape, and he walked us through one of his projects and compared it to a dance. He mentioned that 'landscape architecture was syncopation in space.' This was unforgettable for me. A few weeks later, I saw Anna's wonderful dance performance on William Steig, and thus these two ideas became embedded in my mind.
In later years, Peter and I had unforgettable conversations with Larry about the meaningful Roosevelt memorial in Washington, D.C and the entrance to Yosemite Park. When in Jerusalem, Peter and I walked every step of the Haas Promenade on many Shabbats, thinking of the beauty captured on its way. Anna and Larry's visit to the Donnell Garden in 2007 was an unforgettable event, arranged by the Cultural Landscape Foundation. We saw this wonderful space for the enjoyment of body and mind and sat under giant oak trees in the sun, carrying on meaningful conversations with old and new friends.
Larry's work and books will always remind us of his inspiring mind and thus he will never be forgotten.
Photo: Oberlander and Halprin at the Donnell Pool (Photo courtesy The Cultural Landscape Foundation)