Statue of Liberty - New Museum
A licensed architect since 1968, in private practice for the past 48 years, I have learned there is no "project" issue too large or small, that will go unscathed by this profession. We learn early in design class to criticize and be criticized, for our creative concepts. If one cannot accept criticism he/she should not pursue a license to practice architecture.
With the above preamble in mind, I speak to the current "broo-haha" regarding the "thought" of providing a public museum within the confines of the Statue of Liberty property, (island). My concern, at this "early" juncture in the process, if we are bickering over the "location" of the building, we will never get past the "design concept" issue to come. Form follows Function, classical plan, and/or facade, materials used, etc., etc.
And, to my point, I would ask all my fellow architects to do as my mother taught me, "if you cannot say something nice, keep your mouth shut".
James R. Wooten, FAIA
Original Message------
Perhaps this museum needs to float. Immigrants arrived at Ellis Island via ship, and it is only fitting, if not practical and cost-sensitive, that in a time of rising sea levels a museum built to commemorate such journeys should respond to, rather than fight, the changing seas.
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Susan Shay AIA
New York NY
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