Preface to the First Edition
preface posted April 4, 2012
The 1st edition of the website “Architecture of the Getty Center” was posted on the web Dec. 5, 1997, just before the public opening of the Getty Center, Dec. 16.
During the months preceding the opening, Meier’s monumental architectural achievement was receiving extensive coverage in the press worldwide. Several books with excellent photograph had recently been published. However, print publication does not allow for the number of photographs needed for such a vast, complex campus with multiple structures, courtyards, and careful detailing.
A number of photographs on this website were taken during a visit to the construction site, July 1995. The majority on this 1st edition were taken Oct. 29 to Nov. 8, 1997. All photographs are dated.
This website was made possible by the continuing support of Reed College and with the extensive help of Greg Haun, a former Reed student and author of a 1997 book on Photoshop.
An enlarged 2nd edition, adding 400 photographs taken after the 1997 opening, is linked at the top of each page.
Charles
S. Rhyne
Professor Emeritus, Art History
Reed College
This web site is not affiliated with the Getty Trust.
