Wendy Van Deusen on working with Jack Lenor Larsen
Associate curator Wendy Van Deusen on working with Jack Lenor Larsen at LongHouse Reserve. Bonus video from the VISIONARIES episode. PBS premiere December 21, 2018.
Jack Lenor Larsen is a textile designer, and an author/collector/ promoter of traditional and contemporary craftsmanship in all its forms. The “Larsen Look” (colors, materials, and weaves that are synonymous with modern 20th century design) was begun with his innovative and sophisticated hand-woven textiles. He studied architecture, furniture design, and weaving and attended Cranbrook Academy of Art (MI) receiving his MFA in 1951. In New York City he formed Larsen Design Studio, Jack Lenor Larsen Inc (fabrics), Larsen Carpet and Leather, and Larsen Furniture.
LongHouse Reserve was founded by Jack Lenor Larsen, internationally known textile designer, author, and collector. His home, LongHouse, was built as a case study to exemplify a creative approach to contemporary life. He believes visitors experiencing art in living spaces have a unique learning experience–more meaningful than the best media. LongHouse contains 13,000 square feet, and 18 spaces on four levels. The gardens present the designed landscape as an art form and offer a diversity of sites for the sculpture installations.
LongHouse encompasses nearly 16 acres of East Hampton Township’s great Northwest Woods. Since he acquired the property in 1975, Jack Larsen has laid out an entrance drive lined with majestic cryptomerias, established lawns and ornamental borders, and defined major spaces as settings for plant collections and more than 60 contemporary sculptures.