Volume 4, Issue 9
Thinking the Contemporary Landscape
reviewed by Brian Thompson

“Landscape architecture must be one of few disciplines capable of merging a deeply symbolic and cultural understanding of nature with the massive environmental transformations to come.” This quote is from the introduction to Thinking the Contemporary Landscape, edited by Christophe Girot and Dora Imhof. 

To expand on this concept, the editors have gathered 17 essays by leading landscape architects worldwide. The first step is recognizing that the ecological discussions of the last many decades have found expression in philosophical discussions and in the arts. Slowly, these are also becoming factors in landscape design.

The changing tools of design are a measure of this transformation, as explained by Seattle architect Kathryn Gustafson. While 3-D models are the standard for any sizeable project, she begins with a clay model to develop a sense of the space she finds difficult to recreate on a computer. Taking this approach to landscape design, she finds that “people use it the way that you imagined.”

The later essays seek to understand the power found in a local terrain. However, this power can be in conflict with design principles based on current global trends in ecology and economics, or even the basic concept of what is natural. While these discussions are at times challenging to understand, this book will broaden the reader’s understanding of the many aspects to any human designed landscape.

Restoration ecology in the spotlight this quarter

This autumn quarter UW offers many courses that touch on restoration ecology. From survey courses such as ESRM 100 (Environmental Science) to SEFS 574 (Ecological Engineering) and beyond, more than fifteen different courses will bring ecological restoration resources to the forefront for hundreds of UW students and researchers this quarter.

To support this work, the Miller Library will be highlighting some favorite ecological restoration journals and books, including the University of Wisconsin's journal Ecological Restoration, pictured here and archived online for those with a University of Washington NetID. See the display, including many resources available to borrow, on the journal shelf near our north windows. Registered borrowers here can also use our online catalog to see recommended resources and place holds on specific titles.

Sarah Horowitz Wildflowers exhibit opens

The Miller Library welcomes a new exhibit featuring handcolored original etchings and watercolors by Sarah Horowitz. She recently collaborated with essayist Tim McNulty as well as local papermaking and binding artisans on a limited-edition book on the wildflowers of Chelan County. Horowitz drew, etched, printed, and hand-colored each of the twenty-­three plates for this 40-book edition at her studio in Peshastin, Washington. 

This exhibit features a selection of 12 original works and opens September 7, continuing into October. Join us for an evening reception Thursday, October 12, from 5 to 7 pm, when visitors can meet the artist.

New to the Library