Image Source – Kelly Peak Hugh Kaptur is the last living midcentury modern architect in Palm Springs. Working alongside names such as E. Stewart Williams, Donald Wexler, Bill Cody, John Porter Clark, and Albert Frey, he helped give Palm Springs its distinct clean-line, low-rise forms. Originally from Detroit, Hugh Kaptur fell in love with Palm…
During the 1930s, America was not only reeling from the Great Depression, but also seeing automobiles become the most common form of transportation. Replacing trains and horse-drawn buggies, cars were a much more comfortable mode of transportation. However, they were big and clunky, not very practical for the post-Depression family. While mindful of the struggles…
Image Source: Modernism Week Facebook If you have ever wanted a taste of the midcentury modern life or an excuse to visit Palm Springs, then Modernism Week’s Fall Preview is the perfect occasion. While Modernism Week won’t happen again until February 2020, this “mini-Modernism Week” is another chance to “celebrate and foster appreciation of midcentury…
Concept cars are about dreaming big and discovering what’s possible in the automobile world. However, current car manufacturers are creating concept cars that are all about speed and environmental friendliness while using computer technology. Conversely, automobile design in the mid-century was all about designing a grand, space-age futuristic vehicle with the artist’s personal skill and…
The most well-known architects usually make their mark on the world based on one design they perfect. Frank Lloyd Wright was the father of the “prairie style”. Eero Saarinen is widely recognized for his swooping curves. And Vincent Raney is best known for his domed theaters. While domed theaters aren’t the only design Raney created,…
It’s no secret that times, they are a-changing. E-commerce has taken over, leaving shopping malls to slowly wither away. Groceries can now be ordered from your phone and later picked up from the store without ever having to set foot inside the building. (You can even get groceries delivered to your home!) People see jobs…
Although you may not see many on the road anymore, the Avanti remains one of the most unique cars ever to grace American roadways. Upon its release in 1962, Road & Track dubbed it “a radical departure from the commonplace.” Museum archivist Andrew Beckman called it “a sort of cult film of the automotive world.”…
Image Source: Joevare Here at Form Function Art, we enjoy architectural, industrial, and automotive art and we know a truly great artist when we see one. With over 300 awards and 13 Honorary Degrees, along with a widely published written work, Cesar Pelli is one such artist. This world-renowned architect passed away last week at…
Even though they were not widely recognized, female designers were prevalent in the twentieth century. If they were acknowledged at all, their name was always paired with a male counterpart. Yet women are responsible for creating some of the most recognizable pieces in mid-century design. One of the most iconic chairs from the mid-century was…
Image Source – McDonald’s Media Library When you think of fast food, what comes to mind? More than likely, it’s McDonald’s. McDonald’s restaurants are undeniably an American classic. Travel into just about any town and you will see the familiar sign inviting you in for a burger and fries. However, McDonald’s is not only known for…
