Tilted walls that look like layers of rock… Stainless steel that will reflect the yellows in autumn or the deep blue sky of a summer storm brewing…

Welcome to the Taubman Museum of Art in downtown Roanoke, Virginia where the building itself is its own exhibit.  Photographing architectural design is a favorite of mine, so after spending an hour walking around the outside of the museum and studying the various angles, I was eager to learn what influenced Randall Stout’s design.  Pure and simple.  Nature.  His design was meant to showcase the natural beauty of Roanoke, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Roanoke River and Natural Bridge.   In my opinion, Stout nailed it.

The sight of the museum has not been without controversy though.  I hear that locals either love it or hate it.  But isn’t that what art is all about?  I personally LOVE it!  The museum jumps out amongst buildings constructed in the late 1800′s, creating the perfect contrast as if to say…Look at Me!  The opportunity to sit and have a coffee with the museum’s executive director, David Mickenberg, was a wonderful opportunity.  Learning about the museum’s challenges since their opening a few years ago, their successes and his creative plans for upcoming exhibits and future projects made my visit even more special. Thanks David for taking the time!

BTW, it’s only a short walk from the historic City Market and Hotel Roanoke. All are a must see as you make your way through southwestern Virginia!