Frank Lloyd Wright and Philip Johnson number among the most well known American architects of the 20th century. Both are remembered for their many commissions by others, for buildings constructed both in the United States and overseas. Notably, each of these men designed a house for himself and each reflects something of the respective architect’s […]| Toward Beauty
Found Beauty: a colorful palette in front of a local garden store I continue to be grateful for things I have learned from my former teaching colleague, Ralph McMichael. Among the insights I have g…| Toward Beauty
2 posts published by Stephen Holmgren during October 2025| Toward Beauty
Errol Barron’s work as an artist may be familiar to readers of this website based on some of his evocative New Orleans water color paintings previously featured here. His paintings of that city as well as of Tulane University, where he has taught for many years, provide strong indications that he is more than a […]| Toward Beauty
Reinhold Marxhausen I am currently leading an adult learning group on the theme of Art, Beauty, and Transcendence. Some wonderful observations were offered by my fellow learners at our first sessio…| Toward Beauty
4 posts published by Stephen Holmgren during September 2025| Toward Beauty
I have become fond of quoting a particular question and response found in the Catechism included in our Book of Common Prayer. The question is straightforward: “What is prayer?” The first part of the extended answer to this question is also put plainly, and it is instructive. “Prayer is responding to God.” Consider the significance … … Continue reading →| Toward Beauty
We all imagine taking journeys or voyages, sometimes out of an unfulfilled desire and sometimes with an apprehension about the potential consequences of such ventures. Even those who do undertake to travel over the land or over water usually prepare, even casually, for their upcoming experiences by anticipating certain items likely to be needed or … … Continue reading →| Toward Beauty
Memorial sculpture commemorating the Martyrs of Memphis This week, on September 9, we observed a significant date on our personal calendar by celebrating the birthday of one of our sons. September …| Toward Beauty
Having worked in a variety of church-related contexts for over four decades, I have become familiar with the importance of having a clear vision of one’s mission. In my experience, people are motivated by inspiring mission statements, and especially when they are enacted with cheerful efficacy. As advocates of Appreciative Inquiry maintain, a focus on […]| Toward Beauty
Stones found on a northern Lake Michigan beach Labor Day is around the corner and some of us may receive and enjoy a day off from work. What we call retirement, a stage in life I am presently enjoy…| Toward Beauty
4 posts published by Stephen Holmgren during August 2025| Toward Beauty
Summer visitors to Charlevoix encounter at least two things about the area: first, that this part of Michigan is a haven for boat lovers and especially cruisers on the Great Lakes; and, second, that the city of Charlevoix is the home of Earl Young’s so-called ‘mushroom houses.’ The first observation regarding boats and the appealingly […]| Toward Beauty
Exterior view of Earl Young’s Weathervane Inn As a young man from the rural north of Michigan, Earl Young aspired to produce ‘natural houses’ in the spirit of Frank Lloyd Wright, his inspiration an…| Toward Beauty
When thinking of the beauty of a person, his or her character far outshines any outward physical characteristics a person might have. And when thinking of a beautiful community, we may do more justice to those who live in that area by engaging with some aspects of their daily lives than by focusing more simply […]| Toward Beauty
Our Ted Brewer designed Nimble 24 sailboat, DAYSTAR There is an affliction that is common to owners of sailboats, known as ‘one-foot-itis.’ The name refers to our ever present desire to have just t…| Toward Beauty
