UC – San Diego
UC – San Diego (University of California – San Diego) is a relatively new university. As a result, I wouldn’t expect to see older buildings. I don’t imagine a stately old structure lovingly called “Old Main”. Likewise, I wouldn’t expect a Student Union with beautifully patinaed coffered wood walls and ceilings. At least I didn’t see any such building on a recent (and not extensive) visit to the campus.
What I did see was a good bit of beautiful and modern architecture. However, the extra special feature are the various art installations scattered throughout the campus and on a building (more on this later). These works of art are part of the Stuart Collection. This is composed of site-specific sculptures “designed to enrich the cultural, intellectual and scholarly life of the campus and community.” These works of art provide a provocative softness and warmth to the “hardness” of modern architecture. As a result, it gives the campus a sense of being a welcoming community.
My visit was short and I spent most of my time photographing the Geisel Library. One of those shots includes “Silent Tree” by Terry Allen which is part of the Stuart Collection. However, I also had the chance to shoot another beautiful building that incorporates a sculpture and some quick abstract shots.
“Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
That famous quote form the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz exemplifies the feeling I had when I saw a house on top of Jacobs Hall. It seemingly had been picked up and somehow landed on top of the building cantilevered over the edge and tilted at a precarious angle. Although this may be reminiscent of the Wizard of Oz to the best of my knowledge it is unrelated to it. In actuality, it is another part of the Stuart Collection. It is “Fallen Star” by Do Ho Suh. Public tours are available 2 days per week but unfortunately we were there on the wrong day.
On the way back to the car I was able to grab a few architectural abstracts. So much to see, so little time.
It was a fun visit but too short. I can’t wait to go back to UC – San Diego and spend more time there.
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