Before I could leave Birmingham, Rebecca made me breakfast. Ten slices of bacon, Three eggs, and toast! As I watched her I make it I thought she was going to have some too, but it all came my way. There’s no way I can eat all this.....
Yes I can.
Taylor arranged for me to meet an old Princeton buddy of his for coffee later that morning. John Forney is a Professor of Architecture at Auburn's Rural Studio. John took the time to meet me with and pass off a map of the Rural Studio projects and a quick briefing about the state of affairs at the program since the death of its founder, Sambo Mockbee. So, map in hand, off I went into rural Alabama.
Newbern is about 40 miles due south of Tuscaloosa in one of the poorest areas of the country. Downtown Newbern consists of about eight loosely grouped buildings. The Rural Studio occupies most of them. I met a friendly 5th year student who took the time to show me around all the studios, then sent me off to see the work under construction. Across the field I met Mockbee's daughter Carol who was busy, with the help of a crew of student volunteers, setting formwork for her dad's last design, the Subrosa. I walked up and introduced my self. They were all very friendly. The first question was "How long are you staying?" and the second was "Wanna help?" Well, I was just passing through...and as for work, that's not on my horizon right now. To tell the truth though I was tempted to stay a few days and help out. It might be good therapy. I had people in New Orleans who were expecting me, however, and the Big Easy was already pulling me in.
I'd expected to find a rag-tag, low budget, duct tape and bailing wire operation, but was surprised to find a well organized and vibrant Mini-university. The energy, enthusiasm, and overall atmosphere at the Rural Studio was uplifting. It certainly has a magic aura about it that is alive with possibilities.
Comments