About Art
From a young age, Art’s artistic talents became apparent. Encouraged by his parents, they eventually lead him to attend Otis Parsons in his home state of California. During his first year of study, he realized he not only wanted to be creative on paper, but was intrigued by working on three-dimensional objects and spatial configurations. From designing chairs to buildings, he had discovered a new passion and changed his major to architecture and design. More than 30 years of experience later, he was presented with an opportunity to make another change and joined Abacus Architects. He was drawn to their down-to-earth mentality while providing exceptional design services, their commitment to giving back to the community and the founders’ vision for the firm. Art’s passion for great design, seeing it on paper and working with a team to turn a concept into a reality continues to bring him great satisfaction.
On working with him
“I feel I bring a nimbleness that comes from my experience as a lead designer and having been challenged to solve many different problems. I have learned to be calm in thinking my way towards how to value engineer a project and implement solutions without diminishing the approved design, making it unlike anything else and one in which we can all take pride in our part of the process.”
On his favorite project
“Whittman Hart was a unique client whose mantra was, ‘We see what others don’t.’ My team and I challenged ourselves to incorporate their business goals and branding into a three-dimensional space imbuing their brand and mantra via the sculptural use of built walls and indirect lighting. The result provided both comfort and surprise, collaboration and privacy, control and freedom, and simplicity and complexity.”
On his own time
“My wife and I both have a passion for art and own a small business in Cedarburg that promotes local artists and craftsmen. I began drawing and painting as teen and still love painting watercolors for our shop, drawing caricatures and making birthday cards for friends and family. On weekends, my time revolves around my wife, family and friends. I am an avid kayak fisherman and have fun exploring the many lakes and rivers in Wisconsin. I also enjoy hiking and spending time with family at our cottage on Silver Lake.
On relational architecture
“My primary intent is helping to develop meaningful connections between people and their environment by integrating holistic ideals, aesthetics, sustainable strategies, and applicable technologies.”
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