Heidi Duckler | HDD Founder & Artistic Director
Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of speaking at the L.A. Forum of Architecture and Urban Design event, Under the Influence. The event was held at the incredible, MAK Center for Art and Architecture, which is a unique constellation of modern buildings designed by architect R.M. Schindler. At the event, landscape architect, Caroline Dahl and I had a great panel discussion about site-specificity, site engagement, and motion and site, and how it relates to both our industries when making work.
Under the Influence 2024 | Photography by Roberto Paz
I found it interesting how similar our approaches to the site specificity themes were. It was a great event, and I can’t thank the L.A. Forum enough for having me. My site-specific methodology includes many location visits and sitting in those locations to decide whether I need to be in that space or not. With HDD’s 40th anniversary on the horizon, I find myself reminiscing on the many pieces the company has performed and the historic or typically unconventional locations that hold a special place in my heart. As a lover of historical landmarks and their unsung stories, I’ve decided to start a Site-Specific Wish List. This list includes locations in the U.S. and abroad as well that I would love to create pieces for.
As soon as I stepped into the MAK Center’s Schindler House, I knew I had to add it to the wish list. Built in 1922 by R.M. Schindler, The Schindler House serves as the headquarters of MAK Center for Art and Architecture.
Crafted with mainly stone and wood, the exterior looks like a one-level Angeleno home, but the breathtaking interior is what captivated my soul. Once inside, the ambiance of the house forced me to be still and bask in its 1920’s Japanese style interior, and roam through the stone walled halls with tranquility and a sense of appreciation for the grounds I was frequenting.
Schindler House | Photography by Roberto Paz
In honor of the L.A Forum’s event, I did choreograph a piece with Marissa Brown, a beautiful multidisciplinary artist. The piece was about five minutes long and took place in the garden area. My hope is to one day choreograph another piece solely for the interior of the Schindler House.
Marissa Brown | Under the Influence 2024 | Photography by Roberto Paz
